A Few Words From The Author’s Table
First and foremost, I must extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Hongying Lim, whose profound influence has been a guiding light in my journey through English poetry writing. As the sun of my poetic life ascends to its zenith, it is time alone that will be the judge of the success or failure of my writings in this period.
Life, I have learned, unfolds organically, adhering to its own set of inexorable rules. Eventually, we all must sever our earthly ties and embark on a journey to an unknown realm, a place shrouded in darkness or bathed in celestial light. This transition represents the natural ebb and flow of life and death, a cycle intrinsic to all beings in this transient world. As a poet, I aspire for my works to be timely published and to find their rightful place in the world's tapestry.
I hail from a modest background, nurtured in a secluded village where nature's bounty flourishes. Here, where the sun still rises, painting the sky with rich hues, the unnoticed seeds of poetry were planted in my youthful soul. The unspoken emotions of my wild youth, inspired by the picturesque Dakatia River, its banks adorned with verdant trees and grasses, the silent commotion of the vast fields under the spell of the wind, and the tranquil waters of the nearby river – these have all been the cornerstone of my poetry.
The genesis of my poetic sensibility is deeply rooted in my memories. Growing up in the Bhati region, a land perennially embraced by water, I developed a profound sense of wonder. The Aman paddy fields, gracefully floating over deep waters, ignited my imagination. Sailing through these fields during the monsoon invoked in me a sense of indescribable awe.
Our village, located near the Dhaka-Chattogram highway and in proximity to the Asian Highway, is a repository of my youthful echoes. The walls of our house may still bear the imprints of the verses I crafted in those formative years. The year 1974 marked a pivotal shift in my life. After my secondary education, I moved to the serene landscapes of Kaptai, Rangamati, for higher studies. This relocation was more than a geographic change; it signified a transition from the world of poetry to an epic narrative. Immersed in nature's captivating beauty, my soul found its rhythm. During this time, Bangladesh was in the throes of a severe famine, a crisis that deeply affected our national consciousness. Amidst this turmoil, guided by my uncle Mohammed Yunus, I found my sanctuary in Kaptai.
In Bangladesh, it became clear to me that life does not progress solely through the lens of poetry; it faces harsh realities, particularly in times of need. Harmonizing the pursuit of art with life's demands presents a formidable challenge. Yet, the essence of life and human existence remains the ultimate truth. The wealth of art lies in the richness of human experiences and the sacrifices made. Without sacrifice, love cannot thrive; it dwindles. In an age where self-interest and materialism often overshadow deeper values, the decision to engage in the seemingly unprofitable art of poetry, as I have, raises profound questions. What intrinsic rewards do poets derive from their craft?
There must be something of value, for why else would people like me be so passionately devoted to poetry? In my writing, I delve into the depths of poetry, navigating its vast expanse. For poetry, I've relinquished everything else, adrift in its boundless invocation. Even in my slumber, I find myself composing verses. The content of my writings may often be elusive, but the drive to write is constant. This art form has become an integral aspect of my existence, a fusion of love and yearning. My desire is to merge the remainder of my life with this poetic essence.
Mrs. Ajeet Cour is a powerful Punjabi novelist and short story writer. I hold her in high regard, much like a mother. I have long wished to dedicate a book to her, and now, that long-awaited wish has been fulfilled with the dedication of this published book to her.