Gitanjali by Rabindranath Tagore -Book Review

A collection of poetry to be experienced than talked about

P.C: Designed by Author on Canva

Introduction to Gitanjali

You may think that you consume poetry consciously but there may come along a book, like Gitanjali, where poetry will consume you, wholly, making you feel both lost and found, leaving you with a gratified feeling.

It’s with a feeling of reverence and fondness that I attempt at writing about this book. This book is one that I don’t want to view from a reviewer’s lens. Though this post may be tagged under the category of a book review, let me be clear that this is not a book review.

This is more like a childlike joy of sharing a found treasure with friends. This is exactly that.

Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali is a treasure to be shared and enjoyed, consumed and let be consumed, discussed in platforms and yet relished in silence.

Written by the Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore, Gitanjali (which translates to “Song Offerings”) is a collection of translated poems of Tagore’s collection of Bengali poems titled Gitanjali. Well, the Bengali collection had 157 poems while the English translated collection has only 103 poems.

The collection of poems captures the conversations of the poet with God in its profoundness even while keeping the language simple. It’s the simplicity in which Tagore brings out hope and the possibility to have conversations with God that makes it extraordinarily beautiful.

The poet Rabindranath Tagore won the Nobel Prize for Literature for Gitanjali in the year 1913 which put Indian Literature in high regard across the world.

Where the mind is without fear

I was introduced to Tagore’s work in my school through this poem “Where the mind is without fear” from Gitanjali

Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high;
Where knowledge is free;
Where the world has not been broken up into fragments by narrow domestic walls;
Where words come out from the depth of truth;
Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection;
Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way into the dreary desert sand of dead habit;
Where the mind is led forward by thee into ever-widening thought and action
Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake.

This poem, written by the visionary during the period when the British ruled India, at first looked like written as a yearning for freedom from slavery. But what made me feel relevant even now, making it a timeless classic is that it yearns for freedom from our very own limitations of the mind. 

This poem and all of the other poems in Gitanjali too helps work on an individual level of freedom.

As a nation, we might be free from the shackles of slavery seeing progress in the fields of science, technology, medicine, sports, etc. But are we free from discrimination at the grassroots levels?

Do we even realize what freedom of mind may actually mean?

Gitanjali gently nudges us to question ourselves leading us to the heaven of freedom where the heaven is found just within us, where God sits right inside of us making conversations with Him possible, right now.

Gitanjali-Biggest influence on my poetry (and life) journey

As mentioned in one of my previous posts, Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali is one of the biggest influences on my poetry (and life) journey and honestly, I don’t remember how I landed up with this book. But one thing that I clearly remember is that the very first poem in it had me in tears. Here is that piece:

Thou hast made me endless, such is thy pleasure,
This is my prayer to thee, my Lord-strike,
strike at the root of penury in my heart,
Clouds heap upon clouds and it darkens

Thou hast made me endless, such is thy pleasure
Thou hast made me endless, such is thy pleasure.
This frail vessel thou emptiest again and again,
and fillest it ever with fresh life.

This little flute of a reed thou hast carried over hills and dales,
and hast breathed through it melodies eternally new.
At the immortal touch of thy hands
my little heart loses its limits in joy
and gives birth to utterance ineffable.

Thy infinite gifts come to me
only on these very small hands of mine.
Ages pass, and still thou pourest,
and still there is room to fill.
— Tagore

More interestingly, I couldn’t move on to the rest of the poems and I didn’t force myself to do so too. I sat with the poem.

Some poems come to you to prepare you for an intense experience

while some others come in as an assurance that your path is headed the right way.

Gitanjali has poems that make me feel both ways.

A relationship with God

More often or so, our relationship with God stems from fear or an obligation or a traditional practice but this anthology will make one seek God from a space of love.

There are times when the complexities of life may drain us, making life a dreadful solo journey. But one read of even one poem from Gitanjali can make you feel comfortable assuring that it needn’t be a solo journey while He is by your side.

Tagore brings in the beauty and joy of having an honest relationship with God through his lines effortlessly and efficiently.

I ask for a moment's indulgence to sit by thy side. The works that I have in hand I will finish afterwards.
Away from the sight of thy face my heart knows no rest nor respite, and my work becomes an endless toil in a shoreless sea of toil.
To-day the summer has come at my window with its sighs and murmurs; and the bees are plying their minstrelsy at the court of the flowering grove.
Now it is time to sit quiet, face to face with thee, and to sing dedication of life in this silent and overflowing leisure.

- Tagore in Gitanjali

Ain’t it just amazing? I sometimes feel that kids have such conversations easily while we as adults lose the connection with God because of our learned ignorance. Kids keep it simple like this conversation in the poem above. They say their fears openly, approach and own God which we as adults fear to do, afraid of being judged.

Gitanjali makes those real-time conversations with God possible and helps experience the childlike joy that comes with believing in magic and being open to it.

On another note, I would also love for you to listen to the song below penned by Tagore (not from Gitanjali though) which gives one the hope and courage to make the right choices and walk alone if the right thing is to stay away from a wrongful crowd.  

What makes Gitanjali a must read

This book has an introduction to Gitanjali by the Irish poet W B Yeats is more than enough of a reason to make Gitanjali a must-read. Yeats’ introduction clearly shows his fascination for the mysticism in Tagore’s poems and calls it the work of a supreme culture.

Where most of the divisions and discriminations creep into society out of a religious divide, this anthology has the power of changing perspectives working on an individual level to free us from such limitations.

Even for an atheist, this book has an appeal as there’s no definite portrayal of God here and it’s more of an abstraction and personification. And the poems can make one easily personify God the way they want or simply relate it to an idea they believe in.

It’s more of an experience than a depiction. It’s more of a personal belief than a traditional practice.

Gitanjali helps you shift from a religious trip to a spiritual voyage with hope and love as comfort.

Concluding Notes

Our prayers end in a hurry, we take time to do rituals but not the time to sit alone to contemplate or have a conversation with God. We don’t even think about the possibility of having a conversation with God.

We distance ourselves from God not knowing of His residence just right in our hearts. Gitanjali helps you find Him, fall in love and make Him your forever friend.

We do things out of fear but not with an open-mindedness to seek, to be called wrong and to learn right from the wrong. We forget to learn to unlearn. And it can be hard from a lot of conditioning since birth but that is where Tagore’s Gitanjali comes in as a gentle nudge and a comforting blanket.

Some poems come to you to prepare you for an intense experience

while some others come in as an assurance that your path is headed the right way.

Gitanjali has poems that can make you feel both ways.

P.S. Not every poem in Gitanjali has to be read in one go. Nor every poem of Gitanjali may appeal to you all at once. It is a growing experience.

Sit alone with one poem at a time and experience the magic it brings along. I bet, it will grow upon you and the poems will start talking to you (not necessarily in the same order of writing) right at the time when you least expect it.

Find a copy of Gitanjali here.

Happy experiencing Gitanjali.


7040cookie-checkGitanjali by Rabindranath Tagore -Book Review

Yours is the day to celebrate & the year to look forward to — A Poem

P.C. Designed by the Author

Dear Reader,

This is my little gift to you—a poem to inspire a hopeful start, wherever you are and whenever you need it.

Written in the timeless style of Rudyard Kipling’s ‘If,’ it encourages you to embrace your past, trust life’s process, and discover light even in the darkest moments. A celebration of fresh starts and self-discovery awaits!

Yours is the day to celebrate & the year to look forward to

If you can hold on to hope—
the hushed song of your heart,
a fragile sliver of light
that only you can see—
even on the darkest days,
when the world around you seems
bright and carefree;

If you can embrace your past,
accept your mistakes,
and give yourself another chance
to start over,
with a clean slate;

If you can trust the process,
let the alchemy of life
work its wonders on you,
without fear or resistance,
and surrender to its flow;

If, in surrendering,
you don't get lost in the "what ifs"
and "what nots,"
but focus on what’s needed in the now,
even when life feels unpredictable;

If you can wait
and keep your heart open to answers,
while working with what you know,
ready to shift course
as guidance arrives;

If you can step beyond predictability,
and realize that
your new year begins not on a date,
but in the moment
you choose to give yourself another chance—

Then yours is the day to celebrate,
and the year to look forward.

Wishing you such a celebration.
Happy New Year!


~ Seetha (aka) Preethi

31230cookie-checkYours is the day to celebrate & the year to look forward to — A Poem

Testimonials

Hello!

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A proud Mother

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Writer, Poet

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I highly recommend Seetha’s services.

Get in touch!

At Promising Poetry, we aim to inspire, educate, and celebrate the art of poetry. We invite you to explore, create, and share in this vibrant community. Welcome to your poetic journey!

For placing an order for customized poetry or other queries or collaborations, drop us an email at promisingpoetry5@gmail.com.

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We can weave words that truly impress.
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29940cookie-checkTestimonials

Sustainable Love- A Concrete (Visual) Poetry

Image of a person adding compost to their rose plant.
PC: Designed by the Author using Canva

Hey there, poetry lovers! In my last post, we dove into the world of concrete poetry—a fascinating form of visual poetry where the words on the page shape themselves into a picture that embodies the poem’s theme. Today, I’m excited to share an example of this with you: my poem titled “Sustainable Love.” This piece is about comparing love’s nurturing process to composting, and I’ve shaped it like a garden tool—a shovel! Let’s dig into the thought process behind this creative choice.

Sustainable Love

Love, like 
composting,

by nature
takes time
to nurture
& g r o w
in rhythm
& rhyme.
It starts in
small bits,
like scraps
of h e a r t
then layers
of c a r e
slooowly
built up.
The scraps
seemingly useless
too broken to mend
blend and transcend
with patience and warmth
into something new, rich and full of life,
a foundation for growth, amidst toil & strife.
Like compost needing air , water , & sun,
love needs care , communication , & fun.
Love's to be tended , to prevent it from rot,
to keep it dynamic and full of thought.
Dear, take time, with your love, as you do,
with composting , daily , a little more anew.
create something , that's long-lasting & true,
a love that's sustainable & always anew.


Why a Shovel? The Thought Process Behind the Shape

When I first penned “Sustainable Love,” it followed a standard stanza format. But as I played around with the structure, I found myself inspired to mould it into a shovel—a tool that perfectly symbolizes the nurturing process I wanted to convey. Now, let’s break down the themes and how the visual structure of this poem brings them to life.

Thematic Analysis: How Composting and Love Are Alike

Love Takes Time, Just Like Composting

At the heart of this poem is a comparison between love and composting. Both require patience and care to truly flourish. Just as composting starts with small scraps—tiny bits that might seem insignificant—love often begins with small acts or gestures. These “scraps of the heart” may appear useless at first, but with the right care, they become the building blocks of something much more substantial.

Growth and Renewal

In the same way that composting transforms scraps into rich, fertile soil, love grows and renews through patience and warmth. The repeated emphasis on time—phrases like “takes time,” “slooowly,” and “daily, a little more anew”—highlights the ongoing effort needed to maintain a healthy, sustainable love. Even the most broken parts of ourselves can be mended and turned into something beautiful when nurtured with care.

Care and Communication Are Essential

Just as compost needs air, water, and sunlight to break down and enrich the soil, love requires care, communication, and a bit of fun to stay vibrant. Without these key elements, love can, like neglected compost, become stagnant. It’s all about tending to love regularly, keeping it dynamic and full of thought.

Visual Structure: Why the Shovel Shape Matters

Shovel Shape: A Symbol of Effort and Transformation

The shovel shape is a conscious design choice as I believe it’s a powerful symbol of the effort and transformation that love requires. In composting, the shovel is essential for turning, mixing, and aerating the compost pile, helping it decompose into something rich and life-giving. Similarly, love requires us to dig deep, turn over our emotions, and work through challenges to create something sustaining.

Handle and Blade: The Foundation and Work of Love

The handle of the shovel, formed by the narrow, tightly aligned first few lines, represents the grip or foundation of the poem’s message. As the poem broadens into the blade of the shovel, it symbolizes where the real work of love (and composting) happens—transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary.

Wrapping It All Up: The Power of Visual Poetry

In “Sustainable Love,” the shovel shape isn’t just for show—it’s an integral part of the poem’s meaning. This shape reinforces the central metaphor of love as a process that requires the right tools, patience, and effort to grow into something truly sustainable and renewing. Just like composting, love is a journey of transformation, and this poem visually embodies that journey.

I hope this exploration of “Sustainable Love” gives you a fresh perspective on both love and the art of concrete poetry. As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below and let’s chat!

Suggested Read:

22350cookie-checkSustainable Love- A Concrete (Visual) Poetry

Concrete Poetry – Visual Poetry Where Words Take Shape

An image of a concrete visual poetry, titled, Rain Drop.
Designed by the Author

Hey there, fellow poetry lovers! Today, I want to dive into a form of poetry that’s as much about what you see as what you read—concrete poetry. If you’ve ever come across a poem where the words are arranged in the shape of a tree, a heart, or even a winding river, then you’ve experienced concrete poetry in action. It’s a fascinating blend of visual art and the written word, and it opens up a whole new way of expressing ideas. So, let’s explore what concrete poetry is, look at an example, and learn how to create one yourself!

What Is Concrete Poetry?

Concrete poetry, also known as shape poetry, is a type of poetry where the visual arrangement of the words on the page forms a picture or shape that represents the poem’s theme. The term “concrete” comes from the idea that the poem’s structure is tangible, something you can see and, in a way, almost touch with your eyes. It’s a visual expression that complements or enhances the meaning of the poem.

In concrete poetry, the shape is just as important as the words. The layout, direction, and even the spacing of the text play a crucial role in conveying the poem’s message. It’s like the words themselves are transformed into a piece of art, where the way they’re arranged on the page adds layers of meaning that go beyond what’s simply written.

An Example of Concrete Poetry

To give you a better idea of what concrete poetry looks like, let’s imagine a simple example. Picture a poem about a raindrop. In a traditional poem, you might describe the raindrop’s shape, its journey from the sky, and how it splashes on the ground. But in a concrete poem, you could take it a step further by arranging the words on the page to form the shape of a raindrop.

In this case, the words “falling,” “through the air,” and so on are arranged to mimic the shape of a raindrop descending from the sky. The word “Splashh” at the bottom completes the image, giving the reader not just a sense of the poem’s meaning but also a visual representation of it. It’s simple, but it’s effective—and it turns a straightforward poem into something more dynamic and engaging.

I used the Canva app to create this piece digitally, but you can also do it freehand—just let your creativity flow!

How to Write Your Concrete Poem

Writing a concrete poem is a creative and fun process. It’s like drawing with words, and there’s no limit to what you can do. Here’s how you can get started:

  • Choose Your Subject: Think about the theme or object you want to write about. It could be anything—a tree, a star, a spiral, a heart, or even something abstract like a wave or a whirlwind. The key is to pick something that has a distinctive shape that you can replicate with your words.

  • Write the Poem: Start by writing a traditional poem about your chosen subject. Focus on the content first—what do you want to say? How do you want to convey the emotions or ideas related to your subject? Don’t worry about the shape just yet; get your thoughts down on paper.

  • Visualize the Shape: Once you have your poem, think about how you can arrange the words to reflect the shape of your subject. This might mean breaking up lines, staggering words, or even changing the direction in which the text flows. The goal is to make the shape recognizable while keeping the poem readable.

  • Experiment with Layout: This is where the fun really begins. Start playing with the layout of your poem. Move words around, change the spacing, and see how different arrangements affect the overall look and feel. You might need to tweak the wording or even add or remove lines to get the shape just right.

  • Fine-Tune Your Creation: Once you’ve got a layout you’re happy with, go back and refine your poem. Make sure the text is still conveying your message clearly and that the shape enhances the meaning rather than distracting from it. It might take a few tries to get it just right, but that’s all part of the creative process.

Getting Creative With Concrete Poetry

For me, concrete poetry is like taking poetry to the next level. Concrete poetry is not just about the words; it’s about how those words interact with the space around them. It’s a way to push the boundaries of traditional poetry and create something that’s both visually and emotionally impactful. Plus, it’s a great way to challenge yourself creatively—trying to find the perfect balance between form and content can be a rewarding experience.

So, next time you’re in the mood to write, why not give concrete poetry a try? Let your words take shape and see what amazing creations you can come up with. Happy writing!

This post is a part of the Blogchatter Half Marathon

28410cookie-checkConcrete Poetry – Visual Poetry Where Words Take Shape

Visual Poetry: A Simple Introduction

An Image that reads Visual Poetry
P.C. Canva

Hey there, poetry enthusiasts! It’s been a while since I last posted, and I’ve missed writing and connecting with you all. But to make up for the lost time, I’m excited to bring you a series on Visual Poetry. We’ll explore, experiment, and enjoy this unique art form together. Let’s dive in!

Now, if you’re thinking, “Wait, isn’t poetry just about words, rhymes, and verses?” you’re in for a delightful surprise. Visual poetry is like a wonderful fusion of literature and art, where the way the text is arranged on the page is just as important as the words themselves. It’s poetry you can see and feel, and it brings a whole new dimension to the poetic experience.

What is Visual Poetry?

So, what exactly is visual poetry? In simple terms, visual poetry is an art form where the visual arrangement of text, images, and even symbols is used to convey a poem’s meaning. It’s not just about the words themselves; it’s about how those words are presented on the page. The layout, the fonts, the spacing, any artwork in the background—all these elements come together to create a piece that you experience both with your eyes and your mind.

Imagine reading a poem where the words form the shape of a tree, or where different fonts and sizes create a rhythm that mirrors the poem’s theme. Thus, visual poetry takes the traditional idea of a poem and turns it into something you can not only read but also see and sometimes even touch.

Different Types of Visual Poetry

There are different types of visual poetry. Just like traditional poetry comes in various forms—haikus, sonnets, free verse—visual poetry also has its diverse styles. Here are a few that you might find fascinating:

  • Concrete Poetry: This is probably the most well-known form of visual poetry. In concrete poetry, the words of the poem are arranged on the page to form a picture or shape that reflects the theme of the poem. For instance, a poem about a star might have its text arranged in the shape of a star.

  • Found and Blackout Poetry: This involves taking existing text (like a page from a book or a newspaper article) and blacking out most of the words, leaving only a few behind to create a poem. The remaining words form both the text and the visual pattern, giving the poem a unique visual appeal.

  • Calligrams: A calligram is a type of visual poetry where the text forms an image related to the poem’s content. Think of it as a drawing made out of words. The famous poet Guillaume Apollinaire was known for his calligrams, where he’d arrange his text to form images like rain, birds, or even a woman’s face.

  • Ekphrastic Poetry: This type of poetry takes its inspiration from visual art, where the poet responds to a piece of artwork—whether a painting, sculpture, or photograph—through words. The resulting poem often reflects or interprets the visual piece, creating a dialogue between the two art forms. Ekphrastic poetry bridges the gap between seeing and feeling, offering readers a deeper, multi-sensory experience.

  • Collage Poetry: Think of collage poetry as a literary version of a visual collage. In this form, poets cut out words and phrases from various sources—magazines, newspapers, books—and then arrange them on a page to create a new poem. The visual aspect comes from the physical placement and style of the cut-out words, which can add layers of meaning and texture to the poem.

  • Mathviz Poetry (My New Project!): I’m particularly excited to introduce you to a new type of visual poetry I’m working on called Mathviz Poetry. This style combines the precision and patterns of mathematics with the expressive power of poetry. Imagine equations and geometric shapes merging with verses, where the arrangement of numbers, symbols, and words creates a harmonious and visually engaging piece. Mathviz Poetry seeks to bridge the gap between logic and emotion, proving that even math can have a poetic soul.

Visual Poetry vs. Traditional Text Poetry

You might be wondering, what’s the big difference between visual poetry and traditional text poetry? Well, while traditional poetry focuses primarily on the words and their arrangement in lines and stanzas, visual poetry goes beyond that. It uses the physical placement of words, their shape, and even the space around them to enhance or sometimes even change the meaning of the poem.

In visual poetry, how a poem looks on the page can be just as important as what it says. The visual elements work hand in hand with the text to create a richer, more immersive experience. In traditional poetry, you might imagine the scene or the emotion as you read; in visual poetry, you see it directly on the page.

Why Do We Need Visual Poetry?

So, why do we even need visual poetry? Isn’t regular poetry enough? The answer lies in the unique way visual poetry can communicate ideas and emotions. Sometimes, the visual arrangement of words can express something that the words alone cannot. It creates a stronger connection with the reader, evokes more intense emotions, and adds layers of meaning that might be missed in traditional text.

More so, visual poetry also breaks down the barriers between art and literature, showing that the two can coexist beautifully. It invites readers to engage with the poem on multiple levels—intellectually, emotionally, and visually.

What’s Next?

We’ll explore specific styles, see examples, and even try creating some visual poetry ourselves. So whether you’re a seasoned poet or just curious about this art form, there’s so much to discover.

Stay tuned, and let’s explore the beautiful world of visual poetry together!

This post is a part of the Blogchatter Half Marathon

28330cookie-checkVisual Poetry: A Simple Introduction

அம்மாவின் சாம்பார் பொடி – ஓர் கவிதை

P.C: Canva

இத்தோடு ஈரேழு முறை 
சொல்லிக் கொடுத்து விட்டாள்—
 சாம்பார் பொடி வீட்டிலேயே செய்யும் முறை 
மனம் கேட்கவில்லை
ஒருவேளை சோம்பேறித்தனமோ? 
இருக்கலாம்!

பல தடவை பக்கத்து கடைக்கும் 
போய் வந்தாகிவிட்டது 
சாம்பார் பொடி பாக்கெட்டில் இருந்தும் 
 வாங்க மறுத்தது மனம்...

அம்மா தொலைபேசியில் உறுதி அளித்தாள் —
'கவலைப்படாதே நான் சொல்லும்படி செய்தால் 
என் கை மணம் அதில் வரும்'
  இருந்தும் ஏற்க மனமில்லை

மனதின் எதோ ஒரு மூலையிலிருந்து வரும் 
 அந்த ஏக்கமே அறியும் 
ஏறிக்கொண்டிருக்கும் அம்மாவின் வயதை 
ஏற்க மனமில்லாமல் 
கடத்திக்கொண்டு  பொத்திவைக்க பார்க்கிறேன் 
அவள் அரைத்து அனுப்பும் சாம்பார் பொடியையும் 
அவள் ஆயுளையும் —
 என் சமையலறை டப்பாவில்...


Written as part of #BlogchatterFoodFest.


27420cookie-checkஅம்மாவின் சாம்பார் பொடி – ஓர் கவிதை

Milk and Mends : A Poem on Navigating Love with Food

An image of a cup of rose milk garnished with rose petals
P.C: Canva

Here’s a poem called “Milk and Mends” that’s all about those tender moments in our relationships where love and forgiveness come into play, especially in the kitchen. You know, those simple gestures and little culinary mishaps that somehow lead to a deeper understanding and bring us closer together. I hope you find it as touching as I do, and that it reminds you of the beautiful ways we mend our hearts with the ones we love. Also let me know what do you think is the relationship of the poet and the other person in this poem?

Milk and Mends

He whispered in my ear, 
"There's a gift awaiting in the kitchen."  
I rushed to our little haven,  
To be welcomed by  
The burnt smell of milk cream,  
Spills marking a map to a world unknown.  

Oh wait, I see a little waterfall  
Forming a puddle under the granite slab, 
And four tiles away from it,  
Two small cups half-filled with milk,  
Rose petals on a royal bath,  
Pampered with a sprinkle of cocoa powder.  

I turn back to look at him— 
A sorry face cuts through him,  
For the fight last night 
Over unfinished homework.  

Written as part of #BlogchatterFoodFest.

27390cookie-checkMilk and Mends : A Poem on Navigating Love with Food

Collaborative Poem: The Great Escape

P.C. Canva

Today’s collaboration is with my tween daughter, and I guarantee this poem will make you burst out laughing. If you’re curious about all the excitement or experiencing a bit of FOMO, don’t worry. Check out the post below and join the conversation.

Before you dive into the #CollaborativePoetry for the day, here are a few things I’d like to share:

  1. The first line of the poem is written by the other person, while the second by me, and so on, alternatingly.
  2. What you see here is a raw, first draft that will undergo further editing before finding its place within the pages of a book.
  3. There is no fixed theme or title before embarking on this poetic journey. With each line, our perspectives shifts, and so does the direction of the poem. That’s the uniqueness and beauty of this #CollaborativePoetry.
  4. Every collaborator in this series comes from different backgrounds, ranging from novice to expert in writing/poetry.
  5. To add an extra layer of intrigue, for each poem, I’ll share an analysis generated by ChatGPT. This allows you to see if your understanding or perspective of the poem aligns with it or not. Remember, the beauty of poetry lies in its ability to hold multiple perspectives, all of which can be valid.

So, let’s dive into the poem of the day:

Today, I’ve teamed up with my 12-year-old daughter, Miss.M, once again to craft a comical poem, a stark contrast from the one we created at the start (read it here) of this initiative.

We had a blast and laughed until our stomachs hurt while penning this poem. Honestly, it was all in good fun, with no rhyme or reason behind it.

However, ChatGPT’s analysis takes it to the next level by highlighting an undertone of satire. Check it out at the end of this post. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the poem.

Collaborative Poem - The Great Escape

I had once farted,
A big-bang that it started
Spread till the café in America
Ruining everyone's caffé mocha,
Making people go mad at me-
I then put on my shoes, ready to flee,
Sprinting across countries
To land in a land
Where I have no one to appease
And can fart just at ease...

©www.promisingpoetry.org

ChatGPT’s Analysis of the Poem:

The poem offers a humorous and lighthearted take on a seemingly embarrassing situation—the speaker’s fart causing chaos in a café. The use of comedic exaggeration, such as describing the fart as a “big-bang” and its repercussions spreading across countries, adds to the whimsical tone of the poem.

Despite the initial embarrassment and the anger of others, the speaker decides to flee the scene, putting on their shoes and sprinting across countries to find a place where they can fart without inhibition. This journey symbolizes a quest for freedom from societal norms and expectations, where the speaker seeks refuge in a land where they feel no pressure to conform.

Overall, the poem entertains with its playful language and absurd scenario while also touching on themes of individual autonomy and the desire to break free from societal constraints. It offers a humorous commentary on human behavior and the lengths to which one might go to escape judgment and embrace personal freedom.

That’s a wrap for today! If you’re someone still on the fence, wondering if you can write poetry, or thinking that poetry is a serious affair requiring a lot of effort, then I’m sure this poem will change your perspective. It’s time to let go of your fears and have fun penning poetry.

To see your masterpiece showcased here, click here to get all the details!

Happy Poetrying!!

Suggested Read:

27230cookie-checkCollaborative Poem: The Great Escape

Collaborative Poem: Punctuating Life

P.C. Canva

Today’s collaboration is an anonymous one, and I’m thrilled to share it with you! If you’re curious about all the excitement or experiencing a bit of FOMO, don’t worry. Check out the post below and join the conversation.

Before you dive into the #CollaborativePoetry for the day, here are a few things I’d like to share:

  1. The first line of the poem is written by the other person, while the second by me, and so on, alternatingly.
  2. What you see here is a raw, first draft that will undergo further editing before finding its place within the pages of a book.
  3. There is no fixed theme or title before embarking on this poetic journey. With each line, our perspectives shifts, and so does the direction of the poem. That’s the uniqueness and beauty of this #CollaborativePoetry.
  4. Every collaborator in this series comes from different backgrounds, ranging from novice to expert in writing/poetry.
  5. To add an extra layer of intrigue, for each poem, I’ll share an analysis generated by ChatGPT. This allows you to see if your understanding or perspective of the poem aligns with it or not. Remember, the beauty of poetry lies in its ability to hold multiple perspectives, all of which can be valid.

So, let’s dive into the poem of the day:

Today’s collaboration is an anonymous one, and I must say I enjoyed the way the poem turned out. The verses capture an emotion that many of us can relate to—love and longing. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the poem.

Collaborative Poem -Punctuating Life

In the state between wakefulness and sleep
You happen to be my dearest dreams
A dream never come true...
Chasing mirages are my only memories-
An oasis in the dull and drab of life
Love, what keeps you alive?
Just two fingers crossed for days that come by,
Marriage of dreams & destiny, a sweet lullaby...
No thoughts of what ifs
When full stops can dance into semicolons in a punctuating life...

©www.promisingpoetry.org

ChatGPT’s Analysis of the Poem:

The poem delves into the realm of dreams and aspirations, exploring the intersection between imagination and reality. It begins by describing a state of liminality—between wakefulness and sleep—where the beloved exists as a cherished dream, yet one that remains unfulfilled. This unattainable dream is likened to a mirage, symbolizing the ephemeral nature of desires and memories.

The speaker reflects on the role of love in sustaining hope and vitality amidst the mundane aspects of life. Despite the challenges and uncertainties they face, the speaker maintains a sense of optimism, symbolized by the metaphor of crossing fingers for better days ahead.

The imagery of marriage between dreams and destiny evokes a sense of harmony and acceptance, suggesting a willingness to embrace life’s journey with all its twists and turns. The reference to punctuation marks like full stops and semicolons metaphorically represents the fluidity and potential for change within the fabric of existence.

Overall, the poem conveys a sense of longing and introspection, exploring themes of love, hope, and resilience in the face of life’s uncertainties. It invites readers to contemplate the delicate balance between dreams and reality, and the transformative power of imagination in shaping our perceptions and experiences.

That’s a wrap for today! Share your thoughts about this initiative, this poem, or any others featured so far. Your feedback will help me improve and reach more people. Let me know in the comments section—I’m all ears!

Meanwhile, if you want to see your masterpiece showcased here, click here to get all the details!

Happy Poetrying!!

27200cookie-checkCollaborative Poem: Punctuating Life

Collaborative Poetry: Look out for the Gods

Today’s collaboration is a thoughtful one, and I’m thrilled to share it with you! If you’re curious about all the excitement or experiencing a bit of FOMO, don’t worry. Check out the post below and join the conversation.

Before you dive into the #CollaborativePoetry for the day, here are a few things I’d like to share:

  1. The first line of the poem is written by the other person, while the second by me, and so on, alternatingly.
  2. What you see here is a raw, first draft that will undergo further editing before finding its place within the pages of a book.
  3. There is no fixed theme or title before embarking on this poetic journey. With each line, our perspectives shifts, and so does the direction of the poem. That’s the uniqueness and beauty of this #CollaborativePoetry.
  4. Every collaborator in this series comes from different backgrounds, ranging from novice to expert in writing/poetry.
  5. To add an extra layer of intrigue, for each poem, I’ll share an analysis generated by ChatGPT. This allows you to see if your understanding or perspective of the poem aligns with it or not. Remember, the beauty of poetry lies in its ability to hold multiple perspectives, all of which can be valid.

So, let’s dive into the poem of the day:

Kids never cease to amaze me with their grasp of life, and capturing their thought processes in verses is a beautiful journey that I thoroughly enjoy. Blessed with such an experience is this lovely poem by a tween girl.

This poem is a collaboration with Nidharshanaa, an enthusiastic 12-year-old passionate about art and craft. Alongside her creative pursuits, she enjoys singing, dancing, and diving into books—a recently discovered hobby. Time to get inspired by her poem!


Collaborative Poetry - Look out for the Gods

A suitable house to live, a nice dress to wear, are all my needs to live peacefully
A house filled with hugs & a dress with linen of love makes me live more happily!
Alas, across the road, I see people longing for a dress to escape from the cold winter
Where are their clothes & what gives them shelter?
Oh God, why do you make them suffer like this? What did they do wrong?
Or is it just part of a bigger plan I know not of? Yet, it feels just so wrong...
So I treat them as God; extend my hand to fulfil their needs
B'coz people say you can witness God's smile when you do good deeds...
It's always a great day for me as I get blessings from many Gods in my area
To experience the joy I feel & earn some blessings, look for Gods in your area!

©www.promisingpoetry.org

ChatGPT’s Analysis of the Poem:

The poem explores themes of gratitude, empathy, and the interconnectedness of humanity. It begins by highlighting the speaker’s simple needs for a suitable house and a nice dress, which they believe are sufficient for a peaceful life. However, upon witnessing the struggles of others less fortunate, the speaker’s perspective shifts.

The contrast between the speaker’s contentment and the suffering of those across the road prompts questions about the nature of God and the reasons behind human suffering. The speaker grapples with the apparent injustice of their situation and questions why some people must endure hardship while others live comfortably.

Despite these existential queries, the speaker chooses to respond with compassion and action. They extend a helping hand to those in need, viewing their acts of kindness as a way to serve God and alleviate the suffering of others. This reflects a belief in the interconnectedness of humanity and the idea that helping others is a pathway to spiritual fulfilment.

The poem concludes with a message of hope and encouragement, suggesting that by seeking out opportunities to help others, individuals can experience the joy of giving and receive blessings in return. This underscores the idea that acts of kindness have the power to create positive ripple effects and foster a sense of community and goodwill.

That’s a wrap for today, and I’m sure you’re feeling as inspired as I am. While adults often get caught up in various philosophies, kids simply live life their way and show us the purpose of life through their simplest actions. Don’t you agree?

On that reflective note, if you want to see your masterpiece showcased here, click here to get all the details!

P.S. While collaborating with the kiddo today, I received certification from her that I do write poetry well! Pretty cool, right? It got me pumped to engage in more collaborations! See you soon with another poem!!

Happy Poetrying!!

27090cookie-checkCollaborative Poetry: Look out for the Gods