Hi — I’m Mason Carter (born Mushahid Syed).
I’m a poet, fiction writer, translator, and academic with a love for exploring themes like social justice, autonomy, and the ways people come together in communities. I studied English Literature at Shah Abdul Latif University and the International Islamic University, where I wrote my master’s thesis on communes and utopias in literature.
I’ve been teaching since 2017 and currently work as a lecturer in English Language & Literature at Shah Abdul Latif University. Teaching is one of my biggest joys—it keeps me learning and growing every day.
I started writing poetry and fiction in 2010, drawing inspiration from Edgar Allan Poe, William Blake, Khalil Gibran, Samuel Beckett, and others. My work blends lyricism, philosophy, and political imagination. When I’m not writing or teaching, I’m usually reading, watching Netflix, or running study circles with friends. Most of all, I find inspiration in being a dad to my daughter, Elsa.
If you’ve enjoyed my books, I’d be grateful if you’d leave a review on Goodreads or Amazon — it helps other readers discover my work and keeps me writing.
— Mason Carter
Author Q&A
Why do you use the pen name “Mason Carter” instead of Mushahid Syed?
I chose the pen name Mason Carter because it is easier to remember and connects with readers worldwide. Mason was already a nickname I carried with me, and adopting it as an author felt natural while still honoring my real name, Mushahid Syed.
What inspired you to start writing?
Writing began as a way to explore questions I couldn’t find answers to anywhere else. I was drawn to poetry and fiction early on, and through them I found a voice for my thoughts on love, freedom, justice, and the complexities of human life.
Who are your biggest literary influences?
I draw inspiration from writers such as Edgar Allan Poe, William Blake, Khalil Gibran, and Samuel Beckett. Their unique styles, depth, and courage to challenge norms taught me how to merge lyricism, philosophy, and political imagination in my own work.
What themes do you often explore in your books?
My writing often explores themes of social justice, personal autonomy, utopian imagination, and the ways people come together in communities. I also write about love, loss, and the inner struggles of the human spirit.
What is your academic background?
I studied English Literature at Shah Abdul Latif University and the International Islamic University. My master’s thesis focused on communes and utopias in literature, which reflects my interest in both political and literary imagination.
What is your current profession outside of writing?
I have been teaching since 2017 and currently serve as a lecturer in English Language & Literature at Shah Abdul Latif University. Teaching brings me joy because it keeps me learning and allows me to share knowledge with students every day.
When did you start writing seriously?
I began writing poetry and fiction in 2010. Over time, what started as personal exploration grew into a serious commitment to publishing and sharing my work with readers around the world.
What does your writing process look like?
My writing process is a mix of discipline and inspiration. I keep notebooks of ideas, sketches, and fragments, which eventually turn into complete works. Some pieces arrive fully formed, while others take years of reflection and revision to come alive.
What do you enjoy outside of teaching and writing?
Outside of my academic and creative work, I enjoy reading widely, watching films and series on Netflix, and running study circles with friends. Most importantly, I cherish time spent with my daughter, Elsa, who inspires me every day.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Write consistently, even when you doubt yourself. Read widely, not just in your genre. And most of all, write from your heart—don’t chase trends or approval. Authenticity always finds its way to the right readers.