In the last few years many energetic, young authors have entered the literary circle of Pakistan. The zestful writers are producing compelling novels and engaging a large number of readers. However, the process which begins with the conception of an idea and ends with a book on the reader’s shelf is a difficult one.

Shaanzea Shahid, a 19 year old author of an interesting novella Refraction of Beauty, feels the entire process is gratifying. Pursuing a degree in English Literature, she considers imagination as crucial in the writing of a novel. "Experience and maturity are often associated with age; however, they are not necessarily significant," she says.

Saeed Ur Rehman, writer and teacher of English Literature, almost agrees. "Experience is a little overrated," he says. According to him, experience might help in political writing but for writing fiction it is the lucidity of thought that is required. "No age bar can be placed as to when one can start writing. Some start writing in their 20s whereas others stop at that age. Arthur Rimbaud the French poet of 19^th century is an excellent example," he says. Rimbaud is said to have been most creative in his teens.

There are other authors who have managed to create quite a stir with only one published novel. Tanzila Khan, the author of an enjoyable debut novel Perfect Situation, has captivated the attention of young readers with her work. The plot revolves around the ‘plight’ a teenager girl, evoking a feeling of camaraderie among many who have read the book.

How it Happenend by Shazaf Fatima Haider is another example of novel that received exceptional reviews. The stories by newcomers in the field have a breezy quality; they often appear simplistic on surface and with their interesting yet grasping plots have ensured success. Haider’s book certainly established her as a prominent writer.

Saba Imtiaz, the Karachi-based freelance journalist and author of Karachi, You’re Killing Me!, has much to say on the subject of age and writing. "I don’t think age is a significant factor at all, and neither is experience. I do think it depends on what you’re writing about though -- sometimes lived experiences can be an advantage, but not necessarily."

Age not being an important determinant of an author’s success is something that most writers agree upon. It might appear to be a sweeping generalisation but there does exist a mindset that thinks the work of a renowned writer is the only piece worth reading. Young authors face several problems starting with the ‘doubt’ that often holds them back. "Most fear failure and I did too. I wrote my first novel and terribly dreaded a negative reaction. Since completing my first little venture, I feel sure that this is what I’m going to do -- write," says Shahid. There is finality in her tone and a touch of contagious confidence which, perhaps, is going to ensure sustained writing and commercial success for her in the future.

According to Saba Imtiaz, writing fiction was not among her plans. "I had no plans of writing fiction before the editor of a publishing house talked to me about writing a novel. I’d written a chapter or perhaps less, and the process made me realise I could potentially write a book -- and perhaps more fiction after that."

Encouragement is all these aspiring writers need; friends, peers, editors and publishing houses that would take the pain of reading the manuscript. "I didn’t experience the problems a lot of people do. I had a fantastic editor -- Faiza Sultan Khan -- who went over each chapter or whatever disjointed paragraphs I’d send and then get back to me with changes and suggestions and so throughout the writing process, I had a lot of feedback, input and help," reminisces Imtiaz.

"You have to be invested in your work and feel inspired by it. Only then one can achieve a positive review," says Shahid, adding that becoming "famous" should not be the sole driving force for a writer. "The need to let your thoughts across is what should matter."

There are several problems the beginners face, ranging from mustering enough confidence that would help them excel, to finding a publisher willing to take in their work. However, most agree that at the end of the day it is what the readers think that truly matters. Young authors with their interesting insight and fresh perspective tend to bring a subtle balance to the literary mix. Saba Imtiaz’s Karachi, You’re Killing Me! has stirred emotions across the border. According to various news sources, the book is all set for movie adaptation. This certainly is huge milestone to be achieved. An earlier adaptation of Mohsin Hamid’s The Reluctant Fundamentalist set a precedent.

This shows the attention these writers are receiving and the popularity gained by contemporary literature over the years. These 20-somethings have managed to provide their readers books worth reading. Young authors, first-timers, often face hurdles in the beginning. It is however, what come after the earliest success that establishes a writer. "Getting positive feedback once is not enough. It simply means that now a writer will have to work twice as hard to make sure the reader gets something engrossing to read," says Shaanzea Shahid.