Flash fiction gaining popularity among readers, say writers

Our Correspondent

Hoshiarpur, June 10

A webinar was held by the Chandigarh Literary Society (CLS) which was attended by writers and authors of the region. City-based writer Dr Rana Preet Gill stressed on the need to inculcate the habit of reading books since childhood. Dr Rana Preet Gill and Yuvika Grewal took part in an interaction moderated by Niharika Bhuwania.

Dr Gill, working as a Veterinary Officer with Punjab Animal Husbandry Department, said she had been a diligent reader since schooldays, which she believes helped her in writing.

The session revolved around varied themes, ranging from lockdown, writing as a catharsis, the changing face of publishing industry, importance of reading and self-publishing as an option, against traditional publishing. While Dr Gill considered social media to be an open platform, where everyone is free to voice its own opinion, Grewal emphasised reading as a learning experience.

Both the writers believed that the times had changed and writing had evolved in the past few months. They elaborated upon how micro fiction and flash fiction had come up to the rescue of those who do not want to read full length novels. The imposition of lockdown has created a niche reading audience, which wants to read shorter pieces of fiction for instant gratification.

Vivek Atray said the CLS had been very encouraging when it came to promoting writers of the region. It had been the constant endeavour of the society to encourage the upcoming talent.