Archive · 26 Jul 2025
Sanjana Sathian Discusses Her Novels, Identity, and Writing
Author Sanjena Sathian writes novels that explore identity and culture.
Her debut, "Gold Diggers," is a mix of different styles that looks at Indian Americans.
Her new book, "Goddess Complex," is about identity, motherhood, and doppelgangers.
Sathian talks about her books, her writing process, and the ideas that inspire her.
She talks about the challenges of writing, magical realism, and how her characters think about success and belonging in today's world.
Sanjana Sathian's novels explore themes of identity, culture, and the immigrant experience.
Her debut novel, "Gold Diggers," blends genres and critiques the Indian American community.
Sathian's second novel, "Goddess Complex," delves into themes of motherhood, identity, and doppelgangers.
The interview discusses Sathian's writing process, influences, and exploration of complex ideas.
Sathian shares insights on magical realism, capitalism, and the challenges of identity.
- Who
- Sanjana Sathian, author of "Gold Diggers" and "Goddess Complex," is interviewed by a writer and scholar from Guwahati.
- What
- An interview with author Sanjena Sathian about her novels, themes, and writing process.
- When
- The interview took place after the American release of Sathian's second novel in Spring, 2025.
- Where
- The interview was conducted via email between the author and the interviewer, who are now in Hong Kong and Calcutta, respectively.
- Why
- To discuss Sathian's writing, influences, and the ideas explored in her novels, including themes of identity, culture, and capitalism.
Capitalism and Greed
Identity and Society
Ambition vs. Belonging
Capitalism and Greed
The characters in "Gold Diggers" are greedy in a capitalistic sense and seek status and power.
Identity and Society
Sathian is empathetic to the desire for belonging beneath the greed, which can be twisted.
- Author
- Sanjana Sathian
- Debut Novel
- "Gold Diggers" (2021)
- Second Novel
- "Goddess Complex" (2025)
- Primary Themes
- Identity, culture, immigrant experience
- Genre of "Gold Diggers"
- Tragicomedy, genre-bending
- Setting of "Goddess Complex"
- Northeast United States and Western India
- Current Location
- Hong Kong