by Meetali Sharma
This is part of Between The Lines, an interview series with writers in Singapore about the craft and creative process of writing.
Ever found yourself plunging headfirst into a passion without a map? Imagine a book lover, heart full of stories, who stumbles upon a writing module in their studies. Encouraged to try, they face the blank page with uncertainty and doubt. Against all odds, they transform into a compelling writer, finding their true voice in the process.
We had the joy of meeting Patrick Sagaram in our Between the Lines series. Patrick, in his writing, embraces innovation and isn’t afraid to break the mould. He is an educator and teaches “theory of knowledge” in a school. Patrick’s predominant source of inspiration are the giants of 20th-century American fiction, whose groundbreaking works continue to shape the literary landscape to this day.
He is published in Quarterly Literary Review Singapore and anthologies such as Letter to My Father, How We Live Now: Stories of Daily Living, and the Best Singaporean Short Stories.
As a teacher, do you think your writing journey intersects with your experience in education ? Can you tell us how it began and how your role as an educator shaped this journey ?
Patrick Sagaram: Though my professional role revolves around teaching the procedural aspects of ‘Theory of Knowledge’. With writing the paths I navigate differ significantly. My passion for literature and writing blossomed during my college years. However, it was during the mentorship access program by NAC where I met my mentor Felix Cheong, that I experienced the most growth as a writer.
I find my writing style to be a fusion of intuition and imagination, a reflection perhaps of my interests and experiences. Yet, the nature of the subject I teach inevitably imbues me with a process-driven approach. But the initial step invariably involves translating thoughts into tangible writing - a process that lays the groundwork for a deeper exploration.
Your stories exhibit a remarkable sense of focus, accompanied by profundity. How do you achieve such clarity and richness in your writing, especially considering the complexity of your characters and their dynamics?
Patrick Sagaram: My writing style leans heavily on character development rather than plot progression. I consciously prioritise character interactions and dynamics in my stories. Initially, this focus wasn't a deliberate choice, but rather an organic one. I realised that diverging too much from character-driven narratives could risk disengaging readers.
I would like to highlight that in my approach, creating a rich atmosphere serves as a cornerstone. Particularly in genres like science fiction, where the setting defies reality, meticulous world-building becomes paramount. By crafting a world that feels tangible and believable, readers are seamlessly drawn into the narrative. This trust in the constructed world allows for a fluid journey through the story, leading not necessarily to its end, but to significant junctures within the narrative.
Your stories often delve into aspects of spouse intimacy, relationships and the hurdles encountered within them. What draws you to explore these topics in your writing?
I would like to mention Raymond Carver whose literary focus was on the intricacies of relationships within the working class, expressed through a sophisticated and highbrow lens. I tried reimagining the same amidst the vibrant dynamics of Singaporean society. In this reimagination, the rich tapestry of Singapore's cultural nuances serves as a compelling backdrop for exploring the hurdles of partnership and human connection.
Observing couples in this bustling city-state offers a fascinating glimpse into the interplay of emotions. Through the narrative, characters speak volumes in their silent dialogues, navigating the complexities of their relationships with introspective depth.
I also very actively try avoiding the use of slang or Singlish in dialogue since in this reimagined setting, mundane moments are elevated to moments of profound insight, inviting readers to explore the intricacies of the human heart without much verbal dialogue. It's the character talking in his head, which to me, is powerful.
Another recurring theme in your writing appears to be child longings, motherly instincts, as exemplified in your story “Child’s play”. Can you shed some light on your inclination to write about such subjects?
Patrick Sagaram: I read about cat abuse somewhere. An idea popped up in my head, I found myself drawn to a vivid image: a lone boy standing amidst a group of his peers, circling around a cat. This scene sparked a cascade of ideas, prompting me to explore the setting and potential intersecting narratives.
As I delved deeper, I unearthed the complexities of character's desires and struggles. Much like in one of my previous stories, where a character yearns for something elusive, these characters grapple with their own aspirations and uncertainties. In "Child’s Play," the protagonist faces marital tension, while the couple's unwavering determination to have a child, especially the wife's maternal longing, drives the narrative. Meanwhile, I felt compelled to reintroduce the cat, bringing the story full circle.
The couple’s relationship serves as a metaphor for innocence and vulnerability. Thus, their intertwined destinies become a driving force, propelling the narrative forward with a sense of urgency and emotional depth.
In your writing pieces, you don’t seem to adopt a preachy tone, despite delving into contentious issues that can spark debates. What are your thoughts on this approach, especially when addressing sensitive topics in your stories, like in your short story “Vicky”?
Patrick Sagaram: As an example,within my creative space, I find myself drawn to the subtle art of omitting direct references to her, Vicky. Instead, I focus on illuminating the multifaceted dimensions of my characters, revealing their contradictions. Take, for instance, the character who may seem utterly broken, yet harbours a deep sense of care and responsibility towards his father. This juxtaposition serves as a testament to the intricacies of human nature, where individuals can simultaneously embody strength and vulnerability.
Embedded within my landscape is a profound appreciation for 80's pop culture, a nostalgic backdrop that infuses my stories with a sense of familiarity and resonance. As a proud member of Generation X, I find solace in exploring the neglected narratives of characters who share my age and experiences. It is through their lens that I champion the importance of narrative empathy, recognising that the essence of fiction lies not in understanding, but in empathising with the struggles and triumphs of others.
In my storytelling, I eschew the temptation to pass judgement or draw premature conclusions about characters, even when they commit deplorable acts. Instead, I invite readers to suspend their judgments and try delving into the human psyche to unravel what drives us all. For it is within the beauty of narrative exploration that we come to understand that sometimes, a character's actions are beyond their control, revealing the inherent fragility of us humans.
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