Poetry as a Creative Escape: Iqra Naaz Finds Balance Between Science and Writing

Iqra Naaz, a class 12 student at Apeejay School, Saket, is an inspiring young poet with a passion for writing that began in her early school years. Now, as one of this week’s “Apeejay Promising Poets,” she shares her thoughts on how poetry offers her a creative escape and helps her navigate the challenges of her academic journey.

Iqra, you’re studying medicine with PCB and Psychology. How do you balance this demanding stream with your poetry writing? Does it ever interfere with your studies?
It’s not easy, honestly. But I make time for it because of the encouragement I get from my English teacher, who’s also my class teacher. She always urges me to keep writing and not let science stifle my creativity. I wrote ‘Weight of Victory’ during a particularly frustrating time after our half-yearly exams, when everyone was feeling down after not performing as expected. It came from that frustration.

Can you tell us more about the poem ‘Weight of Victory’?
Yes, the poem is a reflection on how our expectations were shattered after the results. Everyone thought they had done well, but when the results came out, they were disappointed. That’s when the idea for the poem came. It explores the weight of expectations and the disappointment when reality doesn’t meet them.

When did you first start writing poetry?
I’ve been writing poems since Class 6. It started with simple topics for art-integrated projects  but my teachers soon noticed my ability to express myself through poetry. As I grew older, I started writing more seriously, especially when I felt strong emotions—whether it was happiness, frustration, or sadness. Poetry became my emotional outlet.

How has Apeejay School, Saket contributed to your growth as a poet?
My school has played a huge role in helping me discover and continue my poetry. The school has always encouraged creativity, and the teachers have been very supportive. My English teacher, especially, has been a big influence in keeping me motivated to write.

Who are your favorite poets or writers?
I really admire Adrienne Rich. Her poems are indirect, often addressing social issues in a subtle, layered way, which I find fascinating. A poem like ‘Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers’ has so much depth—on the surface, it seems like a simple piece, but as you dive deeper, it reveals so much about the author’s themes of confidence and repression. I also love reading fiction, especially J.K. Rowling, Rick Riordan, and Suzanne Collins. Their storytelling is inspiring.

When do you find the time to write, and how long does it usually take you?
I usually write at night after I’m done with my studies. It can take me anywhere from half an hour to an hour depending on the poem. The themes can vary greatly—from something as simple as reflecting on my day to more complex topics related to my emotions or current events.

Do you follow any poets or writers on social media?
Not really. I’m not on social media yet, so I don’t follow any poets or writers there. My poetry is quite personal, and I prefer to keep it to myself, stored in a Word document.

Do you have any plans of publishing a book in the future?
Maybe! If everything goes well with my career and studies, I’d love to publish a book of poems. But for now, I’m just focusing on my career and let’s see where writing takes me.

Do you prefer writing in rhyme or free verse?
I prefer free verse because it gives me more freedom to express my thoughts. But sometimes I find that rhyme helps in making the poem’s rhythm and meaning clearer. For ‘Weight of Victory,’ I used a mix of rhyming and free verse.

What’s next for your poetry? Any upcoming themes or ideas you’re working on?
I’m working on something related to the upcoming school farewell. I’m not sure how it will turn out yet, but it’s exciting to explore new themes.