Who is Dr. Pratik Pravin Bhat
Dr. Pratik Bhat, a dedicated healer and a passionate poet. With a background in medicine, including an MBBS and an MD in Pathology, Dr. Bhat serves as a Consultant Pathologist at Goa Medical College, where his expertise shines brightly.
Beyond the corridors of the hospital, Dr. Bhat is affectionately known as “The Dark Poet” among his close circle. His debut poetry collection, “Will You Cheat on Me, Baby?” delves into the depths of human nature, exploring the complexities of relationships and the shadows of infidelity across various landscapes.
When he’s not immersed in the world of medicine or crafting verses, Dr. Bhat finds solace in the pages of books and the exploration of new places. His journey reminds us that even amidst the rigors of science, there exists a poetic soul yearning to express the intricacies of the human experience.
An interview with Pratik Bhat
The Literature Times: Welcome to The Literature Times, author. Congratulations on the release of your book. What responses are you getting from your readers? Please share your experience with this book.
Pratik Bhat: Thank you so much for the warm welcome! I’m thrilled to be here with The Literature Times to discuss my latest work, a collection of dark poetry that has been a deeply personal journey for me.
The responses from readers have been incredibly moving and gratifying. Many have reached out to share how the poems resonated with their own experiences of loss, love, and the complexities of the human condition. It’s always powerful to hear that my words have touched someone or helped them articulate emotions they hadn’t been able to express before.
This book is a compilation of raw, unfiltered emotions that delve into the shadows of the human psyche. Writing it was both a cathartic and challenging process. I aimed to explore themes that are often left in the dark—grief, despair, longing, and the faint glimmers of hope that sometimes pierce through. It’s a mirror to our more somber thoughts, the ones we might hesitate to voice.
One particularly poignant moment for me was when a reader shared that the book helped them cope with the recent loss of a loved one. They found solace in the way the poems did not shy away from pain but instead embraced it as an integral part of our existence. Knowing that my work could provide some comfort in such difficult times is profoundly humbling.
Overall, this experience has reaffirmed my belief in the power of poetry to connect us, even in our darkest moments. The dialogue it has sparked with readers has been nothing short of extraordinary, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share this collection with the world.
The Literature Times: What encourages you to become an Author?
Pratik Bhat: What encouraged me to become an author was an unyielding desire to give voice to the emotions and thoughts that often go unspoken. From a young age, I found solace in the written word, discovering that poetry had the unique power to capture the intricacies of the human experience in ways that transcend ordinary conversation.
The catalyst for my journey was a combination of personal experiences and the profound impact of literature I encountered along the way. Moments of introspection, encountering both joy and sorrow, fuelled my need to express these feelings creatively. Moreover, reading works by poets who bravely explored the depths of their souls inspired me to do the same.
Ultimately, my drive to write comes from a place of wanting to connect with others on a deeply emotional level. I believe that through sharing our most vulnerable moments, we can foster a greater understanding and compassion for one another. Becoming an author has allowed me to explore these themes, offering readers a mirror to their own experiences and, hopefully, a sense of solace and connection.
The Literature Times: What are your favorite topics of writing? Please tell us something about your interest areas in the literature.
Pratik Bhat: My favorite topics of writing are those that delve into the complexities of the human condition, particularly the darker, more introspective aspects. I am drawn to themes of grief, despair, longing, and the often elusive nature of hope. These themes offer a rich tapestry of emotions to explore, providing a deep well of inspiration for my poetry.
In addition to these darker themes, I am fascinated by the interplay between light and shadow in our lives. The moments of clarity that emerge from darkness, the resilience found in vulnerability, and the beauty in sorrow are all areas that captivate my interest. I strive to capture these nuances in my work, aiming to create a space where readers can confront their own emotions and perhaps find a sense of solace and understanding.
Another area of interest for me is the exploration of existential questions. The meaning of life, the passage of time, and our place in the universe are profound topics that naturally lend themselves to poetic expression. These themes not only challenge me as a writer but also invite readers to embark on a journey of reflection and discovery.
In literature, I am particularly inspired by works that are unafraid to confront difficult truths and that explore the full spectrum of human emotion. Writers who blend raw honesty with lyrical beauty, such as Sylvia Plath, Anne Sexton, and Charles Bukowski, have significantly influenced my approach to writing. Their ability to find grace and meaning in the midst of turmoil is something I deeply admire and aspire to in my own work.
The Literature Times: We were hoping you could tell us about some of those writers who had inspired you and whom you follow!
Pratik Bhat: Absolutely, I’d be delighted to share some of the writers who have profoundly influenced my work and continue to inspire me.
Sylvia Plath is one of the foremost influences on my poetry. Her ability to convey deep emotional pain with stark, haunting beauty is unparalleled. Plath’s works, particularly “Ariel,” reveal the raw edges of human experience, blending despair and resilience in a way that resonates deeply with my own thematic explorations.
Anne Sexton is another poet whose work has had a significant impact on me. Sexton’s confessional style, her courage in addressing taboo subjects, and her unflinching honesty about her personal struggles with mental health have all shaped my approach to writing. Her poems often navigate the dark and the divine, the personal and the universal, which I find incredibly compelling.
Charles Bukowski brings a different kind of inspiration. His gritty, unpolished depictions of everyday life, his unabashed embrace of imperfection, and his unique voice offer a refreshing counterpoint to more traditional forms of poetry. Bukowski’s work reminds me of the power of authenticity and the beauty that can be found in the mundane and the flawed.
Edgar Allan Poe is another literary giant whose work I admire. His mastery of gothic and macabre themes, his exploration of the human psyche, and his rhythmic, musical quality of verse have all left a lasting impression on me. Poe’s ability to create a sense of eerie beauty and profound melancholy is something I strive to achieve in my own writing.
Rainer Maria Rilke’s meditative and deeply philosophical poetry has also been a guiding light. Rilke’s exploration of existential themes, his reflections on solitude and creativity, and his lyrical style provide a rich source of inspiration. His letters and poems often delve into the artist’s inner life, offering insights that resonate with my own creative process.
Following these writers has not only enriched my understanding of poetry but also encouraged me to embrace vulnerability and authenticity in my own work. Their influence reminds me that writing is not just about crafting beautiful lines but about forging connections, confronting truths, and exploring the depths of the human experience.
The Literature Times: The titles seem different and catchy; how you decided it? Please let us know the story behind it.
Pratik Bhat: Deciding on the title “Will you cheat on me, baby?” was a deeply intentional process. I wanted a title that would immediately provoke a strong emotional reaction and capture the essence of the themes explored in the book.
This title encapsulates the raw vulnerability and intense emotions that run through the collection. It reflects the deep-seated fears, insecurities, and dark introspections that many of us experience in relationships and life in general. The question itself is stark and direct, mirroring the candid and unfiltered nature of the poems within.
Ultimately, the title serves as an invitation for readers to confront their own emotions and fears, much like the poems do. It’s meant to intrigue, provoke thought, and set the tone for the dark, introspective journey that the book offers.
The Literature Times: What are your achievements so far? Tell us something about your writing career.
Pratik Bhat: This is my debut work and I have just entered the world of writing. Being a published author really feels amazing! Motivates me to never stop writing.
The Literature Times: What is your current goal in writing a career? How do you see your future in writing?
Pratik Bhat: My current goal in my writing career is to continue exploring and deepening my craft, particularly within the realm of dark poetry. I aim to push the boundaries of my own creativity and emotional expression, delving even further into the complexities of the human condition. Additionally, I hope to reach a broader audience, connecting with readers who find solace and resonance in the themes I explore.
Looking to the future, I envision expanding my body of work to include not only more poetry collections but also branching out into other genres such as essays, short stories, or even a novel. I want to continue challenging myself and evolving as a writer, always striving to offer fresh perspectives and honest reflections.
Moreover, I see myself engaging more with the literary community through readings, workshops, and collaborations with other artists. Building a supportive network of fellow writers and readers is important to me, as it fosters growth and inspiration.
Ultimately, my vision for the future is to create a lasting impact through my writing, offering works that resonate deeply with readers and contribute to the broader literary conversation. I hope to continue exploring the dark, the beautiful, and everything in between, always with the aim of touching hearts and minds.
The Literature Times: Are there any other books being worked by you? Please let us know about your future projects.
Pratik Bhat: I have four more books in the pipeline which will get published in a month or so, all of which are dark poetry themed.
The Literature Times: How you see Indian writing in the 21st century? What changes do you see in the modern way of writing? Do you feel it has been changed by the time?
Pratik Bhat: Indian writing in the 21st century has evolved remarkably, reflecting the dynamic and diverse nature of contemporary society. There’s a vibrant mix of voices and genres, from the resurgence of regional literature to the growing prominence of Indian authors on the global stage. Modern Indian writing embraces a range of themes, including urbanization, identity, and social justice, while also honoring traditional narratives and folklore.
One significant change is the increasing use of digital platforms, which has democratized publishing and allowed a wider array of voices to be heard. Writers are experimenting with new forms and styles, blending traditional storytelling with modern techniques. This shift has made literature more accessible and diverse.
Furthermore, there’s a noticeable shift towards more inclusive and representative storytelling. Authors are exploring marginalized perspectives and addressing previously taboo subjects, thereby enriching the literary landscape with a broader spectrum of experiences and viewpoints.
Overall, Indian writing has adapted to the times by becoming more inclusive, experimental, and digitally savvy, while still cherishing its rich heritage. This dynamic evolution ensures that Indian literature remains relevant and impactful in the global literary scene.
The Literature Times: How easy/ difficult it was for you to publish your book? What message would you like to give to budding authors?
Publishing my book was a journey filled with both challenges and rewarding moments. The process involved a lot of perseverance, from finding the right publisher who understood and believed in my vision to navigating the complexities of editing and marketing.
One of the more difficult aspects was getting my manuscript noticed amidst the sea of submissions. It required persistence and a thick skin to handle rejections and continue pushing forward. Networking with other writers, attending literary events, and building an online presence also played crucial roles in eventually finding a publisher who aligned with my goals.
To budding authors, my message is twofold:
1. Stay True to Your Voice: Authenticity is your greatest asset. Write what resonates deeply with you, even if it means venturing into uncomfortable or unconventional territories. Your unique perspective is what will set your work apart and connect with readers on a profound level.
2. Persevere: The path to publication can be daunting, but persistence is key. Rejections are part of the journey, not the end of it. Keep honing your craft, seek feedback, and don’t be afraid to revise and improve your work. Remember, every successful author has faced setbacks—what matters is how you respond to them.
Embrace the journey with all its ups and downs, and continue to write passionately and persistently. Your voice deserves to be heard.
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