Zayan Askari is a class VIII poet at Apeejay School Panchsheel Park and a budding poet in the making. The young boy has a beautiful poetic vision which can be seen in his recently written poem India-Land of Unity in Diversity. Zayan highlights the rich diversity in the nation vibrantly through the poem and presents his take on what makes India, the most unique rather best country in the whole world.
At what age did you start writing poetry?
I started writing poetry around the age of 11 because that was the time I became interested in English as a language to express myself, my ideas and my thoughts. I think writing poetry or writing anything is all about expressing oneself. Observing things around you and then channelling your thoughts out in the open right? I think I have just about started my journey here.
Did anything inspire you in particular?
Nature, books, and the stories I hear around me inspire me. My teachers and my family also encouraged me to write. There are times when I write whenever I am free at home and can pen down my thoughts. There are times when I write about a particular place or situation after absorbing different experiences for instance I find it easy to write about a visit to the mountains during vacations or after attending a wedding or family gathering. That is my forte.
Tell us the thought behind your poem India-Land of Unity in Diversity.
There is no doubt that India is the most beautiful country in the world. There is so much to see, and experience and its diversity makes it even more beautiful. This poem is about celebrating India’s diversity. Though we have different cultures, languages, and religions, we stay united as one nation. I wanted to show how our differences make us stronger and unique.
Who is your favourite poet and poem?
My favourite poet is Rabindranath Tagore, and I love his poem Where the Mind is Without Fear. It motivates me as a human being and also as a poet.
All-time poet’s cliche question: Rhyme or free verse?
I like both, but rhyming poems are more fun to write. They feel musical and enjoyable to read. I am also trying my hand at writing a rap.
And writing poems in the day or night?
I usually prefer writing at night because it’s quiet, and I can focus in a better manner.
How does the school help you?
My school helps me a lot by providing a unique environment that encourages my creativity through writing. My teachers have always motivated me to improve my capabilities and try new ideas.
Describe your writing process, please.
I start by thinking about a topic and then note down ideas. It usually takes me 20–30 minutes to write a poem. My common themes are
nature, emotions, and my country. I don’t post my poems on social media yet, but I enjoy reading poems by others online.
Finally, the best thing about writing poetry for you?
Poetry helps me creatively express my feelings and thoughts. It’s like sharing my world with others through words.