In her debut novella, Said in Between the Silence, Author Megha Rao R takes readers on an emotional journey through life, death, and the bonds of friendship. Set in a quiet corner of Bangalore, the story follows Meera, whose sudden passing leaves her loved ones grappling with loss — while she observes, silently, the world moving on. An advertising professional with a lifelong passion for storytelling, Megha balances leading a design agency with her literary pursuits, creating a narrative that is both poignant and thought-provoking.
Q: What inspired you to write this book, and how did the idea come to you?
I’ve always been fascinated by writing. The idea came to life during a conversation about perception — how different people have different stories about the same person. I asked a friend, “Imagine I’m dead, and you and my other friends come to see me for the last time. Each of you would have a different story to share about me…” That became the seed of this story.
Q: Can you share insights into your writing process? Any unique routines or rituals?
I was on sabbatical, which gave me the undivided attention I needed. I wrote at least a paragraph every day to maintain momentum. I believe stories have lives of their own — often, they end differently than I initially imagined. The thoughts flow like an unrestrained river, shaping the words in unexpected ways.
Q: Are your characters based on real people or purely imaginative?
It’s a mix of both — inspired by real people as well as my imagination.
Q: Your book explores death and friendship. What motivated you to tackle these themes?
Death, to me, is a transition to the unknown. It’s also a time when people share heartfelt stories about those who have passed. I have a handful of friends I value deeply, and exploring these themes together excited me as a writer.
Q: How do you balance originality with genre expectations?
I drew inspiration from real-life stories around me. The challenge was weaving them into a seamless narrative that felt authentic and engaging.
Q: How do you maintain tension and momentum in the story?
Honestly, I give credit to the story itself — it takes on a life of its own. The narrative flows in its own direction, and I follow along.
Q: How do you see traditional storytelling evolving in today’s rapidly changing media landscape?
I’m still learning here, but I believe there are readers for every genre. A good story will find its audience, regardless of the form.
Discover the stories that linger in the spaces between life and silence. Get your copy of Said in Between the Silence today and experience a journey that stays with you long after the last page.
