WRITTEN INTERVIEW OF SANDEEP MATTHEW
– AUTHOR OF GIN SOAKED BOY

You have mentioned that the book is based on a true story, so would you be willing to share some details about it if you feel comfortable doing so?

SANDEEP MATTHEW-One of my best friends suffered from depression for many years, and having witnessed it first-hand, I realized that, unlike other illnesses, it gradually exacerbates over time in a way that you don’t even realize it is moving to a place of no return. I also realized there is limited literature and awareness of this topic especially in India and therefore I felt like doing my part to create this awareness

When it comes to writing a novel, the first draft is often considered rough, and starting the journey can be challenging. In the context of your novel, which addresses an issue not commonly discussed in Indian households, what specific challenges did you encounter during the writing process?

SANDEEP MATTHEW- In my case, writing was a form of catharsis and therefore dealing with my friend only helped me feel better. So unlike other authors who may have had a hard time getting started, I sometimes found it hard to stop the words from flowing out.

What kind of research did you undertake for this work, particularly concerning its psychological aspects?

SANDEEP MATTHEW- I have consulted with 3 independent psychologists for my book to ensure the content I have written about depression is not grossly incorrect, however, this is my own view at the end of the day and I am not an expert on this illness

Were there any scenes or moments in the book that were especially difficult or emotionally exhausting to write because of their connection to depression?

SANDEEP MATTHEW- Many of them, the toughest being the epilogue which can break me down if I read it again even now in spite of having read it probably over 50 times already

Moving on with the protagonist, Raj is a character that I could somewhat relate to; his inner thoughts and feelings. Was that the case with you too? Did you infuse aspects of your persona onto Raj while writing about him?

SANDEEP MATTHEW- The stories are loosely based on a bunch of friends I grew up with

Throughout the book, we notice that Raj craved individuality and desperately wanted to stand out amongst the crowd, but his circumstances pulled him down. What advice would you offer someone who finds themselves in a similar situation?

SANDEEP MATTHEW- Seek help. The first step to solving a problem is to accept there is one. In the case of mental illnesses, accepting and seeking help, even if it is from a friend, is the best thing one can do.

There is a line in the book, “good conversations were paramount for Raj.” This is in contradiction with the fact that Raj never actually indulged in any deep conversations with others. How would you explain this apparent contradiction between his need for vulnerability and the lack of it in his interactions?

SANDEEP MATTHEW- Raj loved conversations, as long as it was about the other person. The moment the topic would shift to him, he would become uncomfortable. Which is why he would do everything possible to keep the topic focussed on others by psychoanalyzing and debating to no end.

It is customary in narratives to portray an event that dramatically alters a character’s life. Would you think that was also the case with Raj, leading him down the path to self-destruction? If so, what would it be?

SANDEEP MATTHEW- That’s the thing about depression I have tried to write in the book. There is no one life-altering event. Depression sets in very gradually over a span of many years, and in highsight, there may be many signs, but during the course of a person’s life undergoing depression, you rarely spot any noticeable events.

How did you strike a balance between the necessity for a compelling and fascinating narrative and the harsh reality of depression?

SANDEEP MATTHEW- In the case of the book I have clearly split out the events in 2 acts, one in the past where Raj is nothing short of a prodigy and the second in the future where he displays signs of depression

Can you discuss the significance of eradicating the stigma associated with mental health? And what role do you see your book playing in society’s continuing conversation regarding it?

SANDEEP MATTHEW- I believe individuals and organizations can do a lot and I’ve written an article on this and attached here if you wish to use any excerpts