Roshan Sethi, a physician, director, and debut novelist, introduces readers to Raj in his novel, *The Simp*. Raj is a conflicted Los Angeles entertainment assistant who aims to become indispensable to a high-powered couple while secretly pursuing his own dreams of stardom. Sethi's work is being noticed in a landscape where the archetype of the Hollywood underling has gained traction in contemporary fiction.
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In an interview with *Vogue*, Sethi shared insights into his character Raj, emphasizing that while he may not embody a traditional hero, he serves as the protagonist of a more nuanced story. Sethi noted that he wanted Raj to be complex, motivated by a desire to avoid the “minority-victim story.” He drew inspiration from *Vanity Fair*, admiring how Thackeray depicted an unlikable character, showcasing the flawed nature of humanity.
Sethi explained his approach to crafting Raj’s character, likening it to his experiences as a medical student, where the goal often feels like being invisible. He employs a writing process that involves trial and error—a method he describes as “try harder, fail harder.” Instead of outlining, he writes organically, accepting the unpredictability of creativity.
Reflecting on Hollywood’s diversity discourse since 2020, Sethi revealed that his experiences in the industry revealed a shift in representation. He began his career in 2015, observing a change from overt racism to a mixed environment. He expressed ambivalent feelings about the industry’s progress, acknowledging that his early work primarily focused on white characters. The ups and downs of diversity initiatives left him and others with complex emotions.
Currently, Sethi splits his time between Los Angeles and Boston, where he works part-time as an oncologist. He discussed his mixed feelings about L.A., contrasting it with his preference for the East Coast, which has a more traditional academic atmosphere.
On the literary influences for *The Simp*, Sethi revealed a strong preference for 18th- and 19th-century literature over contemporary fiction, citing authors such as Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. He connected his literary tastes to his Indian upbringing, finding solace in Victorian narratives that resonate with his cultural background.
Sethi attributed his medical background with shaping his writing voice, emphasizing the empathy he develops as a physician. He interacts with a diverse array of patients, which informs his understanding of complex characters, regardless of their flaws.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.