Who is Das - Biography | Yog Das

The Literary Journey

I am Yog Das, a 51-year-old novelist and poet from Kerala, India. My literary work focuses on philosophical fiction and historical fiction, exploring the depths of human experience through compelling narratives that span different eras and cultures.

I have recently completed the manuscript of my novel "The Nobles," a story set on a tiny atoll in the Pacific in the 1890s AD. This work explores themes of isolation, community, and the human condition in a remote setting during a transformative period in history.

Currently, I am working on my second novel, "Gioconda Deus," which is set in Bali, Indonesia and South India in the 8th century AD. This historical narrative delves into the rich cultural tapestry of Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent, examining the intersection of different civilizations and belief systems during this fascinating period.

Literary Philosophy

My approach to writing blends philosophical inquiry with historical storytelling. I believe that fiction provides a unique vehicle for exploring complex philosophical questions through the lived experiences of characters across different time periods and cultures.

In my philosophical fiction, I explore fundamental questions about human nature, morality, and the search for meaning. Rather than presenting abstract theories, I prefer to examine these concepts through the concrete experiences of my characters as they navigate their particular circumstances and historical contexts.

My historical fiction focuses on periods of cultural intersection and transformation. "The Nobles" examines life on a remote Pacific atoll in the 1890s, while "Gioconda Deus" explores the rich cultural exchanges between Bali and South India in the 8th century. These settings provide fascinating backdrops for examining universal human themes.

Sources of Inspiration

Classical Literature

From the epic narratives of Homer to the psychological depth of Dostoevsky, classical literature provides the foundation for Das's storytelling techniques and thematic explorations.

Philosophy

The works of existentialist philosophers, ancient Stoics, and Eastern philosophical traditions inform the ethical and metaphysical questions that drive his narratives.

History

Extensive research into historical periods, from ancient civilizations to medieval societies, provides authentic settings for his explorations of timeless human dilemmas.

Visual Arts

The techniques and perspectives of master painters influence both his own visual art and his literary descriptions, creating rich, painterly prose.

Personal Mission

"I believe that art – whether written or painted – has the power to expand our understanding of what it means to be human. In a world that often seems fragmented and chaotic, stories can help us find connection and meaning. My goal is not to provide easy answers but to ask better questions, to create spaces where readers can explore the mystery and beauty of existence."

- Yog Das