The article discusses the transformative power of literature in the author's life, highlighting key books and authors. Starting with The Rainbow Fish, the author critiques its misleading message about friendship. They reflect on how Out of the Ashes led to their first experience of emotional devastation, connecting with themes of grief through Maugham's stories. Encountering Teju Cole's Tremor challenged conventional writing norms, while My Year of Rest and Relaxation ignited the desire to consider writing as a pursuit. The author emphasizes a shift in perspective, allowing literature to wash over them rather than rigidly analyzing it.
If your friends are making you peel scales off your body, they're not your real friends! This reflection highlights the detrimental message in The Rainbow Fish.
Maugham's morbid tales offered profound insights into loss that resonated with my childhood grief and provided an early connection to Malaysian literature.
Teju Cole's Tremor challenges the banality of writing advice, demonstrating the freedom in breaking conventional storytelling rules and embracing personal narrative.
Reading My Year of Rest and Relaxation ignited my desire to write, transitioning from a realistic future in law to exploring my own voice through fiction.
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