Ammar Al Naaimi is a 27-year-old content creator and editor at an Omani corporation. However, there is more to him than just his professional occupation. A man with vast imagination and words that when put on paper are beyond intriguing and exciting, Ammar Al Naaimi is an incredible writer. “As soon as the evening rolls in and the sun begins to fade, my other calling as a fantasy author shines through,” says Ammar. His novel ‘Sarim’ is all set to hit the bookstands on 3rd June 2021.
Storytelling is a long creative process that takes hard work and commitment. But most of all it takes passion and patience. Ammar uses three avenues to tell stories, “First are tiny stories which I post on social media for people to simply read for fun. Second, I write short stories occasionally, about once per month if I’m busy. These I read out loud for people in video form. Third, I write longer fiction (novels and collections) about once per year,” he explains.
To give you a full picture of his writing journey and how he does what he does, we caught up with Ammar for an exclusive interview, so you know everything you need to know in his own words.
When and how did you first discover your passion for writing?
I’ve always loved stories but never knew they could be my path to walk. Around 2012, someone complimented a throw-away piece I wrote out of boredom, and it suddenly clicked. That’s when I began writing every day, though that was just practice.
Writing is an unstoppable force. When I write, I sink completely into the story’s wadis. I find myself immersed head-to-toe in what’s happening, and the scenes drag me along its riverbed. When I look up, two or three hours have passed.
What inspired you to take up writing more seriously?
In 2019, I decided to write a tiny social media story, and I was thrilled at the response from people. I decided to pursue that avenue, and eventually, that brought me all the way here. I’m pleasantly surprised at the amount of support I received, and the interest shown by readers. It’s truly a pleasure writing these stories.
Can you share any personal challenges you faced when you decided to pursue writing as a career?
The most interesting challenge so far has been trying to convince people that this can be a “thing.” People do not believe this is as an actual “thing.” They consider it “a thing,” certainly: Something to pass time, a hobby of convenience and skill. However, people disregard the potential of readers in Oman, which then by necessity means that writing in Oman cannot become a real “thing.”
Guys- it can be a Thing.
As a writer, what are some of the creative challenges you face?
I think the language and time are some creative challenges I face. Right from the beginning, there have been people who have been urging me to switch languages or to have my stories translated. I address this challenge directly by simply telling people there are other authors out there who write in Arabic. I just happen to like writing in English.
As for time: Writing takes time and it can be frustrating not being able to find three hours a day to write. But I simply overcome that by writing “in sips instead of gulps,” as Stephen King put it. If I have 30 minutes? I write for 30 minutes.
Can you tell us a little bit about your novel Sarim and what was the inspiration behind it?
Sarim is a fantasy adventure following the adventures of jinn exorcists in Muscat set in the year 2019. It particularly follows Mishal Al Balushi, a 15-year-old kid who loathes himself and spews fire from his palms. He joins The Public Authority for Anti-Jinn Operations and, well, that’s where the action begins!
Mishal Ahlam Eman
I got the idea for Sarim while talking to Mohammed Al Attar, who is a wonderful Omani artist. I truly wanted a story which takes teenagers in Muscat but throws them into a world inspired by all the urban myths and jinn stories that we grew up hearing about.
Was Sarim your first major project? How can people access it?
Sarim is my second project, but it will be my first proper commercial project, since it’ll be available at Omani bookstores in Muscat. Currently, Sarim is on pre-order from a link shared in my social media accounts. Once June 3 comes around, people will be able to buy it from bookstores here in Muscat, as well as on Amazon.
Which of your pieces of work can you call your favourite and why?
Sarim, no question about it. I love the simplicity apparent in Sarim’s writing style. The book was painstakingly phrased to suit readers here, and I take pride in that. It’s simple, fast paced, and heart-breaking.
Can you share some insights into your writing process? What goes on in your mind when you decide to put together a written piece?
My writing is focused on “observing.” I try to put myself into the story and chronicle the events I see unfolding before me. It’s an exciting type of writing because I have no idea what’s going to happen. Once I am in that zone, I try to phrase things in a clear and fun way for the reader.
Creative professions can get frustrating at times as everyone has different likings. Has there ever been a point in life where you felt like giving up writing or just low. What kept you together or kept you going?
Thankfully, I’ve not had a moment where I seriously considered stopping. I write because I enjoy writing. That will be true regardless of success. However, at the points when I feel particularly terrible at writing, it’s often the feedback from readers that gives me a boost. Honestly, having people who like what I write feels incredible.
As someone who has been writing for a while, would you recommend others to try their hand at it? Why?
Absolutely. I think writing can be an effective tool for people to express themselves and their stories. At the very least, give it a chance and see if you enjoy writing itself. If that happens, then you might just fall in love with it.
From your vast experience, is there some key piece of advice you would like to give to people who are passionate about writing?
Read and write as widely as possible. Reading books, watching films, listening to music, it’s all food for your next piece. But only reading and writing can evolve your style. Even if it’s just 50 words a day, get something down.
Where do you plan on taking your writing journey in the future?
For now, Sarim is all I see on the horizon. I’m hoping to continue the story in a series of books. After that? Well, let’s just see what comes along.
Are there any exciting new projects you are working on that you can share with our audiences, one that they should keep an eye out for?
For people who enjoy stories, I think they should keep an eye on my social media. My social media page is a land of plenty, with free short fiction waiting for you every week! It might even get you excited to read more novels down the line.