‘Poetry keeps you connected to your inner self’

I have been writing poetry since the past 13 years and have been through many stages and phases. But when I see Janvi Sharma’s poetry trajectory, not only can I find a piece of myself in it, but can tell from experience that she is on the right track. 

From philosophical poems like A child’s heart and A chat with stars to simple fun poems like Hot noodles in rainy season, she is enjoying and exploring her craft to the fullest. And that is what brings out the poet in us, when we fall in love with the very process of writing. For we begin to see then, the entire world as one big poem containing several poems within it. 

Let us learn more about Janvi’s love for writing, as she is selected as this week’s Promising Poet. In addition, she also speaks of her love for Shakespeare, writing in the night and free verse process. Read edited interview:

At what age did you start writing poetry?

I started writing poems from the age of 7 or 8 I think. I was in third standard then. Writing was a feeling of immense joy for me at that time and it stands the same even now.

How did the journey into poems begin?

My parents and teachers have always been very supportive. They encouraged me in every path of life and they were the ones who inspired me to write poems and kept fuelling my passion of writing.

Most poets say the day poetry happened in their lives, it changed them completely. How has poetry writing impacted you?

Poetry writing has definitely changed me. When I write a poem I feel blessed that I can express my views freely and artistically. Poetry has helped me cherish every moment of life, even the smallest ones.

Coming to the favourites now, who is your most cherished poet and any favourite poem?

My favourite poet is the Bard of Avon, William Shakespeare. He is a really great poet and I feel he is an all-rounder, from plays to poems, he mastered everything. Sonnet 18 from his works is my favourite. He compares the beloved to the beauty of a summer day in it and I find it most remarkable.

The clichéd poet’s question: Rhyme or free verse?

I prefer the latter choice as I am able to express myself more freely in it. The act of writing is the soul of a writer.  It is only while writing that one feels really jubilant and for me that happiness can be expressed better through free verse.

Also Read: ‘Poetry is the best stress-buster’

Here’s another poet’s special question: Writing in the day or at night?

I write most of my poems at night because that is when my mind is most relaxed and can work well.

How does your school help you to write such lovely poems?

Everyone at the school is so supportive and I feel so grateful that I’m in such a lovely institution. My teachers have been a great source of inspiration for writing poems. Our
co-ordinator mam and Principal ma’am are both really caring and want the best for each and every student.

Read This: ‘Tomorrow your roar will be the loudest,’ says young Jalandhar poet

 How do you approach writing a poem? How much time does it take you to complete a poem?

Writing a poem is not rocket science, it is an easy and fun process. I first think on the topic on which I want to write and then begin writing after finalising the idea. It hardly takes me five to ten minutes to complete a poem. I don’t have specific themes or selections related to the poem, I just write what I am keen on.

 Lastly, the best thing about writing poetry?

Poetry is the soul of a writer and this is the best thing. You can be more connected to your inner self through this art.