Kamakshi, a Class 10 student at Apeejay School, Model Town, Jalandhar, is a rising poet currently working on her poetry collection while preparing for her secondary board exams. She was selected as this week’s Promising Poet keeping in mind her poetic potential and her capacity to bloom immensely in the coming years. Let us take a look at what the young wordsmith has to offer to the world. Read edited excerpts:
Kamakshi, when did you write your first poem?
I was 9 years old when I wrote my first poem. That was the moment I fell in love with the art of poetry.
And what inspired you to start writing?
My mother, Mrs. Neetu Vaid Sharma, is my greatest inspiration. She’s an established poet and writer with ten books of short stories and poetry to her name. Watching her passion for creative writing has deeply influenced me. She’s also a PhD in literature and teaches senior secondary students, so literature has always been an essential part of my life.
Which word would best describe your emotions after finishing a poem?
‘Contentment.’ There’s a great sense of joy and pride in completing something that’s entirely your own. Once I finish a poem, I immediately share it with my mom and ask for her feedback and corrections.
Do you have a favorite poet and poem?
Yes, my favorite poem is The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost. I love how it reminds us that it’s okay to choose a path that isn’t mainstream. You don’t always have to follow the herd—you can create your own.
How long does it take you to finish a poem, and what themes do you enjoy exploring?
It usually takes me just about ten minutes. As for themes, I love writing about my loved ones. My mood often dictates my writing—if I’m happy, I write joyful poems, and in times of sadness, I lean towards more inspiring themes.
Do you enjoy writing in other genres?
Yes, I love writing short stories as well. I even helped edit my mother’s collection of short stories, Noblest Nora, which is available on Flipkart.
That’s wonderful! Can you tell us more about your own book?
I’m working on a book about friendship. It explores the importance of good company and the value of friends who motivate and support you. I haven’t decided yet if it’ll be a poetry anthology or a collection of short stories, but it’ll definitely focus on the power of true friendship.
We can’t wait to read it! How does your school encourage your artistic journey?
Platforms like the Apeejay Newsroom website play a huge role in nurturing my creativity. I was thrilled when my poem was published there. Knowing that a larger audience will read my work is an incredible feeling!