Waleed Mahmud Tariq

Tell us a little bit about yourself, your hobbies and interests.

I was born in Peshawar, Pakistan, and have always been passionate about learning. Even in middle school, I was reading college-level books. Despite excelling academically, the traditional education system in Pakistan felt stifling to me, so I pursued a career in finance for the flexibility it offered. My hobbies include reading extensively across various subjects, writing as a personal outlet, painting to express my creativity visually, and driving around while listening to instrumental music, which inspires reflection and new ideas.

When and why did you start writing books?

I began writing books during my decade-long career as a finance professional, driven by a passion for learning and a desire to share my thoughts on interdisciplinary subjects. Initially, writing was a private endeavor, but with my partner's encouragement, I started compiling my work into structured books and published them in 2024.

What made you decide to tackle writing as a career?

Writing has always been a part of my life, but it wasn’t until I realized the peace and serenity it brought me that I decided to pursue it full-time. The act of writing and sharing my thoughts gave me a sense of liberation and purpose, which I found immensely fulfilling. I have published five books, and I aim to transition fully into a writing career by the end of the year.

Which one of your books or characters is your favourite?

My favorite book is "Undepressed," which is deeply personal and inspired by my own struggles with depression. It offers a compassionate and authentic perspective on mental health, something I wished I had during my difficult times. This book holds a special place in my heart for the insights and empathy it conveys.

Which one of your books was the hardest to write and stretched you the most as a writer?

"Probing Freewill" was the most challenging to write. It emerged from my teenage existential crisis and required me to delve deeply into philosophical questions about identity and free will. Writing this book stretched me intellectually and emotionally as I navigated complex and often unsettling ideas about human existence and autonomy.

Who is your favourite author and book?

It’s hard to pick just one, but if I had to choose, I would say "Being and Time" by Martin Heidegger for its deep existential insights. Additionally, "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien has always been a favorite for its lore and epic world building.

What book are you reading right now?

Currently, I am revisiting Homer’s "Odyssey." Reading this ancient text in the modern age provides a fascinating contrast and refreshes my appreciation for timeless literature.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

My inspiration comes from a variety of sources. Personal experiences, particularly my struggles with mental health, have deeply influenced my writing. Philosophers like Friedrich Nietzsche and Jean-Paul Sartre, as well as contemporary thinkers like Noam Chomsky, also inspire my critiques of societal structures. I dabble in a wide range of interdisciplinary subjects, including philosophy, psychology, and social sciences, to enrich my narratives.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

In my spare time, I enjoy reading extensively, writing as a personal outlet, and painting to express my creativity. I also love driving around while listening to instrumental music, which helps me reflect and find inspiration for new ideas.

Do you have any new books in the works?

Yes, I am currently working on several projects. One focuses on the philosophical implications of artificial intelligence and technology on human existence and societal norms. Another explores how to live a peaceful and "good life" in our fast-paced, productivity-driven world. These ongoing discourses blend old philosophical insights with contemporary issues.