Prepare to be captivated by the incredible Thiyara De Silva! This exceptionally talented young author possesses an insatiable passion for writing. During her school years, she achieved accolades such as the Human Relations award, while also excelling as the Captain of her school's Karate team and holding prestigious roles as President of the Photographic Society and the Art and Design Society. Thiyara's artistic pursuits extend beyond writing, as she possesses a fervour for singing and acting. Her debut book, ‘Between Day and Night,’ is a captivating fusion of poetry and prose, drawing inspiration from humanitarian endeavours, martial arts, Greek mythology, and science fiction. Get ready to embark on a literary adventure that will leave an indelible mark on your soul!

Who is Thiyara De Silva and what is your background as an author?

Honestly, I'm still figuring out who I am. But I would describe myself as an optimist and a friendly person with a multitude of creative interests. As an author, ‘Between Day and Night’ marks my first official publication. However, I've been writing since my early teens and even shared my works online under a pseudonym.

What motivated you to compile a collection of poetry and short prose pieces for your first book?

My parents played a crucial role in motivating me. While I used to write for fun, I never took it seriously until I won first place in my school's creative writing competition in 2018. My dad was deeply moved by one of my articles, finding it thought-provoking and profound. He encouraged me to keep writing. The pandemic provided me with ample free time, and by the end of 2022, I had amassed a substantial collection of poems and prose. It was my parents who suggested organizing them into a book and even convinced me to illustrate it myself. With my mom's help, we found a publisher who appreciated my writing, and that's how my journey to becoming a published author began.

Could you share a bit about the themes or overarching concepts explored in the book?

The book is divided into three sections: Day, Night, and In Between. It delves into the vast range of human emotions and thoughts. I've always been fascinated by the diversity and similarity of people. I wanted to capture the essence of humanity in all its glory and organize it into these distinct sections.

Is there a particular piece or poem in the collection that holds special significance to you?

Yes! The last piece in the first section of my book, ‘The Mortal Who Flew: Perspective,’ is particularly close to my heart. It was the first piece I wrote for this book, and it offers a different perspective on the Greek myth of Icarus.

I wanted to present a less tragic version of the tale. I've been called an optimist, and that perspective shines through in this piece. I won't spoil it for you, but I invite you to read it and discover a fresh interpretation of Icarus' story.

What challenges did you face while writing your first book, and how did you overcome them?

One challenge I encountered was feeling compelled to prioritize quantity over quality. I thought I needed a certain amount of content to publish a book, which led me to consider including rushed pieces that didn't align with my artistic vision. Thankfully, my sister knocked some sense into me. She asked, ‘why would you publish something you don't like?’ It was a simple but powerful question that made me reassess my approach. I'm truly grateful for the support and encouragement I received from my family during times when I was my own worst enemy.

Did you always envision your book becoming a published work, or did that idea come later in the writing process?

The idea of publishing didn't cross my mind until around August 2022. In fact, I used to believe that authors were mystical beings possessing inherent genius. It's remarkable to think that I am now considered a published author. This realization has completely changed my perspective on what's achievable.

How long did it take you to write your first book, from initial concept to completion? Did you have a specific writing routine or process that you followed while working on your book?

It took just over two years to complete my first book. I didn't have a specific writing routine per se. I wrote whenever inspiration struck, whether it was in the midst of school, during a conversation, or even in the early hours of the morning. Since this book wasn't planned from the start, I didn't follow a formal process. It was a journey fuelled by the untamed flow of my imagination.

Were there any authors or books that influenced your writing style or inspired you during the creation of your first book?

Absolutely! Patrick Ness's book ‘Release’ had a profound impact on me, introducing me to new possibilities in writing. Rick Riordan sparked my fascination with mythology, while Marissa Meyer's unique take on fairy tales added a touch of enchantment to my creative palette. And, of course, I must acknowledge the countless anonymous writers behind the world of fanfiction, whose works brought me immense joy and inspiration. I draw from multiple styles and ‘vibes,’ allowing me to create my own distinct voice.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are working on their first book?

‘Write what you want to read’ is the best advice I can offer. Don't feel obligated to adhere to every piece of advice you come across. If you want to use an abundance of supposedly unnecessary adjectives, go for it! It's not necessarily bad writing; it's just a different style. If you enjoy it, chances are someone else will too.

How do you envision your growth as a writer beyond this first collection of poetry and short prose pieces? What are your aspirations for your future creative endeavours?

My plan is to keep growing and improving as an author in every way possible. I've been working on an idea for a novel in recent months, although it will take time to bring it to fruition. I hope to publish it in the future. Additionally, I still find myself writing poems whenever inspiration strikes. So, who knows? Another collection of poetry or a compilation of short stories may be on the horizon.

What message or advice do you hope readers will take away from your collection of poetry and short prose pieces?

Above all, I hope readers realize that they are not alone. In a chaotic world that often leaves us feeling rushed and isolated, I wrote this book for anyone who has something to say but struggles to find the words or someone to listen. My intention is for readers to see themselves reflected in my words and to feel a sense of connection, knowing that they are not alone in their experiences.

How did you feel when you finally held a copy of your published book in your hands for the first time?

Excitement doesn't even begin to describe it! When my publisher sent me a picture of my book resting on his desk, I was so overwhelmed that I dropped my phone. A grin stretched across my face, and the magnitude of my achievement truly sank in as I cradled the physical embodiment of my hard work.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of being an author and having your first book published?

The most rewarding aspect has been the response from everyone around me. Witnessing the excitement and support of people who are genuinely interested in my project is incredibly heart-warming. As an author, it's a joy to know that others are as invested in my work as I am.

How has the experience of writing and publishing your first book influenced your approach to future writing projects?

The experience has given me a greater sense of confidence. I now have a better understanding of the entire process, from writing and editing to marketing. I've learned so much from other authors and their unique approaches, and I'm motivated to implement those ideas in my future projects. This journey has taught me how to stay motivated and meet deadlines, driving me to continue growing as an author.