His books are much loved, because their subject, which as he says “chooses him every time”, deeply touches the readership, which has warmly embraced him. With the same fervor that he follows the successful adaptations of two of his novels for the small screen. Spyros Petroulakis, on Thursday, April 26, will be in Patras, on the occasion of his new novel “Avgi – The Buried Notebook” (published by Minoas), in a two-hour meeting with readers at the “Book Corner – Papachristou” bookstore, where and will be signing copies of his book. A little before, the author of several bestsellers talks to us regarding his new story and its messages, the inspiration that “works like hot coal” for him, his relationship with music. And also, he shares with us the good news regarding the television road that, as it sounds, two more of his novels will take.
-We have been holding your 11th book for adults in our hands for a few days now. When did you first feel the need to write?
There has always been an artistic vein in me, that’s why I wrote lyrics. But the reason for me to start writing stories was my children. I wanted to tell them a story regarding diversity and that’s how “Dragon Burbulithras” was born. At the time, of course, I had no idea what would follow in the future…
-So far, what makes you choose the subject of your book each time? What should be awakening within you?
I would say that the “therio” is waking up. Inspiration works like hot coal for me. When I blow it it flares up and when I let it go it calms down. But it always burns. I can write at any place or time of day. On the ship, in bed, under the beach umbrella, in the countryside, on the subway. I have written everywhere and under any circumstances.
Other times, and for stories I’ve had for a long time, it doesn’t even need concentration. It’s like the story is writing itself and I’m serving its plot instead of designing it. I can’t choose the subject, I feel like it chooses me every time.
-So, let’s go to your new novel “Avgi – The Buried Notebook”. How was it born and what is your goal?
“Avgi” is the modern history of the Greek state. A difficult issue, which hurts us even today and we have learned to hide it under the carpet. The book talks regarding the period of the Civil War and focuses on exiled women in a time period when Greece, instead of progressing and evolving, was self-harming and stagnating. May it be read by the new generation so that they will know the mistakes made by both sides and not repeat them.
– Based on true, shocking events, your story connects the past – from March 1951 – with the present, with repeated flashbacks, as well as the heroines, the then young Avgi, exiled for a year to the Old Trikeri of Magnesia, where she suffers forever, with the young Anastasia, who discovers the “buried” notebook of the former. What challenges/difficulties did you face during the writing process and what are your feelings regarding the tragedies you brought to life?
The biggest difficulty was finding sources, cross-referencing them and ensuring that the “Dawn” story would reflect the truth. It took a lot of study and a lot of searching. In order to achieve the desired result, which is a good result, the author should enter with his soul into the roles and into each hero individually and render his perspective with clarity and clarity.
-We see that the story of Avgi shakes 16-year-old Anastasia, who is unbearably bored on vacation with her parents, in Paleo Trikeri. From the world of social media it goes to a world where the harsh reality shocks. With this awakening of the young modern heroine, did you want to convey a message?
I believe in the new generation and the power of awakening, whatever that causes. Young people have the power to bring change if we trust them. If they have open minds and see further than we did at their age, then they have nothing to fear.
-The rape of prisoners, at that time, was something common, it is also recorded in your history. Unfortunately, the phenomenon of abusive behavior, gender-based violence, femicide is on the rise even in the 21st century. Is there a way to cure this scourge, you say?
Violence once morest women is a scourge that must be stopped. Having a daughter myself, I hope that these phenomena will be eliminated in the future. It is impossible for a society to move forward if half the population lives in fear of being attacked or worse, raped.
-Two of your books, “Sasmos” and “The Shipwreck” were successful in their television adaptation. How does it feel to see your stories come to life on the small screen?
It is something that makes me very happy. Let’s not forget that behind these productions there are workers, families who live from this series. Fortunately we were lucky enough to work with a producer and two TV stations who ensured a great result on the small screens.
-And since “Wreck” ends with the closing of the season, is there a proposal for a new television adaptation of your book? “Avgi” is offered, however…
It is heard that next year there will be an adaptation of the books “The Confession” and “The Virgin of the Fire”, whose history is intertwined. This is the continuation of the story, where all the hidden heroes are revealed. Now if there is interest in “Avgi” as well, why not?
-How does music and writing work for you?
Both are pieces of my soul. Everything that fascinates the human soul is also its weakness. For me, it’s music, although lately we keep a short distance. I feel that “civilian” is enough for me because it is somewhat neglected in relation to the past. And this is because in recent years I have received a lot of love through my novels, I visit places all over Greece and people move me, they make me feel that the story I wrote has touched them. There is no greater satisfaction than this!
You hope to…
– I don’t have unrealistic dreams. Simple plans and small steps at a time even if I’m aiming for the top. That’s what I always do and everything I’ve achieved I owe mainly to work, to discipline, but as oxymoronic as this may seem, also to my kousoulad.
Instant update with all the news now and via WhatsApp – See here
#Spyros #Petroulakis #meets #readers #occasion #Dawn
