Interview with Yael Yannay, Author of Avi Lanir

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Avi Lanir – A Short Life Story?

Over the course of 20 years, Noam Lanir tried to produce this book dedicated to his father. He received five versions he didn’t like, then it came to me. Bingo!

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Avi Lanir – A Short Life Story, what would they be?

Where Do We Go Now But Nowhere – Nick Cave

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Favorite reading genre: poetry!!! Second place goes to interviews (assuming the interviewer is worth their salt) with artists who have something worthwhile to say, about both their art and life. Writing genre: I once had the chance to interview Margaret Atwood—the sheer essence of pleasure. Mostly, I write short fragments that freeze an image in time. Like photography: capturing a flickering thing. I love metaphors and subtext.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Several poetry books, a book by Janusz Korczak, and one that is my “personal bible” – The Other Force by Yehudit Hendel.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The monologue by Michal, Avi Lanir’s wife/widow, and the monologue by Noam, his son.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

Before I sit down to write, I read a little poetry—a kind of warm-up for the mental muscles.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

We’ve come into this world to be significant—for someone, or something.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

There are people who are larger than life, who live for something greater than themselves

Yael Yannay is the author of the new book Avi Lanir – A Short Life Story

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