‘Every situation has a poem within it’

To be a poet is no mean feat. With increasing age, one has to bear a lot of jibes and hits for writing the rhythms of the heart in words. Nevertheless, as an artist, it is the duty of the poet to carry on expressing themselves in the best way they know. 

This week, I am very happy to speak to a poet , who has understood this reality at a very tender age. Let us meet Anushka Sinha, a class 10 student at Apeejay School, Noida, who has been selected as this week’s Promising Poet and learn her way of seeing the world.

Read edited excerpts: 

At what age did you start writing poetry?

 I started writing poetry as soon as I turned 12. And it has been an incredible journey. I find a poem in almost every situation. I have written around 300 poems so far.

That is quite impressive! So what inspired you to write poems?

 Music ignited my poetic soul. It has been a constant source of inspiration for weaving emotions and melodies that awakened my inner poet. The rhythmic cadence of songs and soul-stirring lyrics fuel my imagination and prompt me to write a poem about every situation.

Tell us the thought behind your poem: Critics don’t define you?

 So, there was a person who used to find mistakes in everything I did no matter how much I sought perfection. When I scored less, I heard his laughter. When I scored highest, I heard that I was just lucky. That was the day I understood that, no matter how flawless I get, he’ll mock and jeer at each mistake and I turned this feeling into a poem because critics indeed don’t define you!

 Which poem and poet do you like the most?

 Robert Frost is my favourite poet and his poem The Road Not Taken is the one I cherish the most.

Rhyme or free verse?

 I love writing poems in rhyme because it allows me to express my feelings and ideas in a rhythmic and melodic way, adding a touch of beauty and harmony to my words.

 Writing poems in the day or night?

 I prefer writing poems mostly at night and often just before sleeping. For my mind can then think about it peacefully without the stress of another work to do.

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

 My school encourages me to write poems confidently. It conducts several competitions, debates, and class interactions which keeps on giving me ideas. My English teacher helps me improve my vocabulary due to which I am able to write poems without any dearth of words.

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

Whenever I’m sad, broken or happy or feel any such thing, I turn every situation into a poem which works like therapy for me. The time taken varies for every poem but on an average it takes me an hour to write a poem. Later I also edit if and when something better comes to my mind. My approach has been to write poems about my own situations and insecurities which can motivate anyone else who reads my poem.

That is indeed very sensitive! So, what is the best thing about writing poetry for you?

 The best thing about writing a poem is the freedom to express my emotions, ideas, and experiences in a creative and unique way.