The Centifictionist

Ms. V Vaidehi’s two microfiction stories, “Mollycoddled”, and “No Boundaries”, will appear in the fifth issue of The Centifictionist (Vol. 3, Issue 1, Spring/Summer 2022). Ms. V Vaidehi graciously answered a few brief questions for us. Read the interview below.

1. What inspired the stories “Mollycoddled” and “No Boundaries”?

I have always wanted to write about men who are not cast in the “macho” mold. I attempted “Mollycoddled” with such a character and ended the story on a sweet note. “No Boundaries” was inspired by the tourist trappings of adults as against the boundless beauty in a child’s world.

2. What inspires you and your writing?

Everyday life, with its myriad hues, fascinates and inspires me. The compelling need to tell a story, be it fiction or non-fiction, drives me to write.

3. What keeps you going when experiencing times of misery and despair?

In times of darkness, I try to remember that “this too shall pass.” Though it is harder, I try to do the same in times of elation too.

4. What advice do you have for microfiction writers?

There must be a story with a clear theme and ending. Though shorn of details and descriptions, the story must come alive in the mind of the reader.

5. Is there anything else that you would like people to know about you and/or your writing?

I have started writing fiction recently. I am a part of a writing group, “Write Wednesdays”, led by Ms. Suma Varughese, an ex-editor of the well-known Indian magazine “Life Positive.” The group energy and the feedback sessions have helped me immensely in my writing.

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Ms. V Vaidehi writes short stories and memoirs of her travels in her blog titled “Weary feet…happy soul”. The blog address is vvaidehi.wordpress.com. V Vaidehi is based in New Delhi, India.