Interview with Aram Pachyan

### Introduction

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Aram Pachyan, an influential voice in contemporary Armenian literature. Known for his poignant and evocative writing, Pachyan captures the essence of post-Soviet and post-war Armenia through his deeply personal narratives. His journey to becoming a writer was not a deliberate path but a natural progression born from a need to express and document the turbulent experiences of his environment.

*1. Can you tell us a bit about your early life and what led you to pursue writing?*

It happened quite by accident that I became a writer. Writing provided me with relief and allowed me to process my thoughts, especially those related to the post-Soviet environment I grew up in, with all its turmoil and post-war conditions. Writing was my way to express these strong feelings and document the experiences of the post-Soviet era. It wasn’t a concrete goal to become a writer; it just naturally evolved from my need to express and record what we were going through.

*2. What inspired you to write and who were your early influences?*

Spending time with my grandfather was a significant inspiration. As a child, we would write scripts on banana peels, which ignited my passion for writing early on. I read a lot of niche literature, including works by unknown Armenian writers and even those like Ruben Filian, who wrote during the Soviet Union. His life and writings influenced me greatly. Beyond specific individuals, everything around me has inspired my writing, which often reflects the melancholic and harsh realities of the post-war and post-Soviet era. Personal experiences, such as my father’s struggles with alcohol, have also deeply influenced my work.

*3. Do you think that Soviet legacy affects today’s Armenian literature?*

Absolutely. The Soviet legacy heavily influences contemporary Armenian literature. Independent Armenia is just over 30 years old, and it’s impossible not to be influenced by the Soviet era if you’re a middle-aged writer or even a younger one. Our parents and grandparents lived through it, and many societal norms and customs still bear the mark of the Soviet period. The infrastructure and buildings in my city, for example, were largely built during the Soviet Union. This influence is inescapable, shaping the environment and experiences of anyone living in Armenia today.

*4. What is your typical writing routine? Do you have any specific rituals or habits?*

Whenever I have a good idea, I need to write it down immediately with pen and paper. I haven’t adapted to using electronic devices for jotting down ideas. Usually, I take notes on what comes to mind and later, when I have time at home, I develop these notes into chapters or stories. I prefer writing things as they come to me because the creativity and impact are strongest in the moment. Additionally, spending time with my cats is an essential part of my routine.

*5. How do you balance writing with other aspects of life?*

I don’t perceive writing as a job; it’s just a part of who I am. This makes it easy to balance with other aspects of life. Writing helps me cope with my feelings and is a natural extension of myself. As the saying goes, “If you love your job, you will not work a day in your life.” For me, writing is not work but a part of my life and identity, making the balance seamless.