Many writers, if not most, draw inspiration from real-life events and elements. For instance, I will be the first to admit that my sci-fi debut Apex Five reflects aspects of world situations, such as the global indigenous experience under imperialism and the Israel-Palestine conflict.

However, moving beyond political crises, the mythology of India provided the crux influence in constructing the Plane, the world on which “Apex Five” takes place. In light of Thai Pongal (festival for the Sun God in south India), I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for the intricacy of Hindu mythology and the wealth its heroes and villains bring to many of the characters and cultures of my first science fiction installment. Moreover, provided the solar themes in the plot of “Apex Five”, this festival has particularly strong significance.

My fascination with Indian culture largely stems from having grown up and now working alongside many Indians and Indian-Americans in the Bay Area of California. So, how about all you writers and other creatives out there? What elements from your community or other societies have influenced your work and how? Readers – which world cultures do you find most intriguing?