Lerato Mileng, a creative writer and storyteller, discusses her book Writing and Beyond, which aims to promote positive change through enlightenment and healing.
In the book, Mileng offers guidance to authors on how to find balance, happiness, and purpose in their work, as well as the creativity to write. She also explains that her writing is intended to serve as a personal manual for motivation, reassurance, and guidance.
In an interview with The Star, she divulges all the fascinating information about what inspired her to write the book and the important lessons readers can learn from it.
1. What inspired you to write this book?
The inspiration for writing - Writing and Beyond: A Guide to Transformative Writing arose from my deep-seated desire to share the transformative power of writing, which I have personally witnessed throughout my journey. Over the years, through conducting workshops and mentoring others, I have also seen how writing can profoundly impact lives. This book represents the culmination of those experiences, offering a collection of insights and techniques aimed at empowering readers.
2. What are some of the crucial themes that you wish people could take from the book?
Writing and Beyond: A Guide to Transformative Writing explores themes such as the profound impact of writing on personal growth and healing, self-discovery through creative expression, writing therapy, the development of writing skills and finding one’s authentic voice, integrating mindfulness into writing practices for deeper reflection, and nurturing creativity. These themes collectively aim to inspire readers to harness the transformative potential of writing to enrich their lives on various levels.
3. What are some of the memorable highlights that you can note in bringing this book to life, and what was the journey like?
Bringing this book to life has been a journey marked by several memorable highlights. One of the most rewarding aspects was the opportunity for continuous reflection on my personal journey. Writing each chapter felt like crafting a testament to my experiences, compelling me to acknowledge and appreciate my own growth through writing. This introspection deepened my understanding of how transformative writing can be, allowing me to authentically connect with the book’s message. Witnessing the manuscript evolve over time reinforced my belief in the healing and growth potential of writing, making the journey incredibly fulfilling and affirming.
4. What has been a major motivation for you as an author?
As an author, my greatest motivation lies in the art of storytelling through personal narratives that resonate deeply with readers. I am passionate about crafting authentic stories that capture the complexities of human experience and evoke genuine emotions. Each narrative is a heartfelt exploration, aiming to spark introspection and foster connection among readers. I am driven by the belief that through storytelling, we can illuminate universal truths, provoke meaningful conversations, and inspire positive change. This journey of writing is not just about sharing stories but also about contributing to a collective understanding of our shared humanity.
5. What can people expect in the future?
As I continue to evolve as a writer, readers can expect a bolder and more refined expression of my voice. Guided by profound inspiration, I am drawn to explore themes such as the mysteries of life, identity, spirituality, femininity, and the transformative power of writing itself. Currently immersed in crafting narratives that delve into these complex themes, my aim is to bring forth deeper truths and provoke meaningful introspection. I’m pleased to announce that '“Feminine Mysteries” is now available for pre-order, with more books and journals planned for the near future, including children’s books.
6. Why should people buy this book?
This book is your pathway to personal development and healing through the transformative power of writing. It provides practical techniques and reflective exercises that not only enhance your writing skills but also foster emotional healing and self-discovery. Whether you're looking to process emotions, explore deeper aspects of yourself, or simply cultivate creativity, Writing and Beyond offers invaluable tools to empower you on your journey towards personal growth and holistic well-being.
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za