Rajeev Ram Srivastava Interview
Writer, poet, and business consultant Rajeev 'Ram' Srivastava shares insights into his creative journey, the inspiration behind his book शहर इलाहाबाद, and his podcast श्यामवर्ण. He discusses the power of poetry in a fast-paced digital world, the role of solitude in original thinking, and why reading remains the ultimate foundation for aspiring writers.
Q. To begin with, how would you introduce yourself beyond the words “writer, poet, and storyteller”?
I would describe myself as a hobbyist and an enthusiast. Someone with a childlike curiosity about life, always aware that there is so little time and yet so much to explore.
Q. What first inspired you to turn your thoughts and emotions into words?
Interestingly, it was a school assignment when I was 13. One of those end-of-chapter exercises in my English literature textbook inspired me to write my first poem. However, I began writing more regularly and maintaining a journal after I graduated from college in 2009.
Q. Do you believe poetry is more about expressing what we feel or understanding what we cannot explain?
To me, poetry is much more than an expression of feelings. It is a dialogue with our inner selves. A poem may appear to readers as an opinion, an art form, or a mode of expression, but for the poet, the experience can be deeply personal and entirely different.
Q. In a world full of short-form content, how can poetry encourage people to slow down and reflect?
Poetry is often rooted in unique and sometimes uncommon perspectives on the flawed and humane world. This gives it the remarkable ability to convey complex ideas in a simple way.
With possibly the shortest attention span in known human history, we are heading towards a world which is more focused on inventing radical ways to gain a large share of that limited attention. While poems capture attention with a subtle hook, unlike much of today's content it is followed by a reflection.
However, with algorithms constantly pushing more content consumption and their bias towards short-form content, poetry must evolve from traditional delivery methods to a more contemporary one. Only then it can truly live up to its potential and reach to a much wider audience.
Q. How do you know when an idea deserves to become a poem, a story, or simply remain a thought?
There is no predefined criterion that determines whether an idea deserves to become a poem. I do not believe there are inherently good or bad ideas. Ideas simply resonate with us, and when they do, we give them form.
I usually write them down as they emerge. Later, I revisit the work, refine the language, and rewrite sections with greater finesse. Beyond that, I do not impose many restrictions on the creative process. Most of my ideas eventually find their way into a finished piece.
Q. As a reader and thinker, how have the books you read shaped the writer you are today?
Immensely, I would say.
I began reading comic books at a very young age and soon developed a habit of reading whatever came my way. What started as a way to pass the time gradually became a lifelong passion.
Reading has profoundly influenced my thinking, vocabulary, and understanding of a wide range of subjects, all of which find expression in my literary work. Today, my personal library contains more than 130 books, and I can often be found in my study immersed in something new.
Q. What roles do silence, solitude, and observation play in your creative process?
They are central to my creative process.
These are the foundations that bring originality to my work. Truly original ideas often emerge only when we shut out the noise of the external world and allow ourselves moments of introspection.
Q. Your podcast “श्यामवर्ण” is another way to share your voice. What inspired its name, and what do you hope listeners take away from it?
The name “श्यामवर्ण” draws inspiration from two distinct sources. On one hand, it reflects my love and admiration for my late father, Mr. Krishnamurari Srivastava. On the other, it represents the essence of my storytelling, which is deeply rooted.
It is a reality that remains beautiful despite its imperfections, struggles, and uncertainties. Through the podcast, I hope listeners find stories that are relatable, thought-provoking, and honest.
Q. Do you think words have the power to change someone's perspective, or do they simply give a voice to what a person already feels?
Words possess the power to change the world.
How a message is conveyed is just as important as the message itself. When used with the right intent and in the right context, words can shape realities, inspire action, and encourage people to achieve what once seemed impossible.
While people often connect with poetry and literature because they resonate with their existing beliefs and experiences, words also could introduce entirely new perspectives.
Q. What advice would you give to aspiring poets who have meaningful thoughts but struggle to put them into words?
Read before you write.
The more you read, the more refined your writing becomes. Reading expands your vocabulary, sharpens your understanding of language, and helps you discover different ways of expressing complex thoughts.
You will be surprised by the transformation. Over time, you will find yourself structuring your ideas more naturally and translating them into words with far greater ease.
Bio
Rajeev 'Ram' Srivastava is a business consultant by profession and a writer by passion. He is the author of शहर इलाहाबाद and an alumnus of IIM-Indore and NIFT Gandhinagar. Beyond his corporate work and literary writing, he hosts the podcast श्यामवर्ण and is an avid reader and home cook.
Interviewed by Vanshika Gupta
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