Rawat Deonandan wins BEST BOOK OF FICTION

August 7 2036

A second win of Guyana’s prestigious literary award has brought renewed reflection for the acclaimed writer, who remains humbled by the recognition.

Rather than viewing the honour as a personal triumph, the author sees it as a testament to the strength and evolution of Guyanese and Caribbean literature, while reigniting a deeper passion for fiction writing.

Question:

1. You’ve won this prestigous award for the second time. What does this win mean to you? Are you dedicating this to anyone; your parents, perhaps?

Answer:

“This win is not about me. I think about all the nominated works, any of which was deserving of the top prize. This tells me that the overall quality of Guyanese writing, including Guyanese diasporic writing, is quite high. I’m glad I was chosen for the top prize. And I wish my parents were alive to see it. But, honestly, I’m acutely aware that this prize is not about me. It’s about the evolution and progression of Caribbean literature.”

Question:

2. Were you surprised when you received the news, particularly since you were not very optimistic about your chances?

Answer:

“I was 100% surprised. Frankly, I’m still not completely confident that I will get a phone call tomorrow telling me that the judges made a mistake.”

Question:

3. Has this rekindled your passion for fiction writing?

Answer

“Indeed, it has. More precisely, it’s reminded me of what drew me to literary fiction writing in the first place. I don’t mean recognition or accolades. I mean, this award and the event surrounding the award compelled me to think more deeply about why I was so addicted to writing in my youth. I’m a different, older man now. My motivations and needs are different. But now I see better my place in the wider field of cultural contribution.”