Meet a poet who writes about the inner beauty in others 

Soft-heartedness is like a unicorn in today’s world. For the larger world, this emotional trait is required only in fairy tales. But in this ruthless world, if only all people had this sensitivity, then the state of human and nature would be so different. 

Saima Bhalla, a budding poet from Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, not only cherishes kindness in herself but also in others. She often bases her poems on the inner beauty in others and her recent poem is a similar work of art and heart. In this week’s Promising Poet, Saima speaks about her poetic vision and what all this art form has given to her emotional world. 

At what age did you start writing poetry?

I started writing poetry from the age of 13. Writing became a medium to express my feelings and thoughts during the lockdown and that is when I discovered my passion for writing. It continues to be a major part of my life and I love cultivating this gift.

What was the inspiration behind choosing to write?

When I started writing poems for the first time, I used it as a medium to express the thoughts residing in my chaotic mind.  Writing made me feel so better and at peace. It helped me deal with my emotions and to express myself when I felt speechless. Over the years, it has become a significant part of my life.

And what was the idea behind your poem: A poem for her?

A poem for her is a verse for all those kind souls out there. I strongly believe that beauty is from the inside, so the poem narrates the beauty hidden with all those souls who feel that they are below everyone else. They are beautiful in ways the world would never recognise because of the old understanding they have of the word ‘beautiful’. I want to let them know that they are valued and it is their beauty that makes the world a living place.

Your favourite poet and poem?

Well, I prefer novels more. It’s difficult to choose one book from the bundle but if I had to, it would definitely be Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. Some books teach you great lessons and this is definitely the one for me. You relate to some characters and who bring you beautiful life lessons, this book has a mixture of both.

Rhyme or free verse, which is your choice ?

Definitely free verse! It allows me to express my thoughts in a raw form. The poems that I have written are straight from the heart and thus free verse enables me to write in an authentic way.

Writing poems in the day or night?

Time does not dictate writing for me. I write when I feel overwhelmed with thoughts, it provides me with a medium to pour out my emotions and feelings. It allows me to escape from the chaos of the mind and yet to find solace in it.

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

My school and my teachers have been a great source of motivation for me. I would especially like to express my gratitude towards my English teacher, Ms. Ritu Sharma. She supports me and encourages me to write. Her words of appreciation boosts my confidence in my writing skills. All my teachers have been extremely supportive and great mentors to me.

How do you approach writing a poem? How much time does it take you? What are your common writing themes?

Writing a poem for me begins with a simple thought or feeling. It doesn’t take much time to write a poem, especially when you are clear about your views on the subject. I prefer not to confine myself to one theme but explore. However, through my poems I try to appreciate beautiful and kind souls or those who think they are insignificant. I write for them.

Best thing about writing poetry for you?

Writing poetry for me is a way of expressing myself. Sometimes it becomes really difficult to express yourself verbally and that is when I pick up the pen. Writing helps me explore myself. There is a chaos of thoughts in our minds and writing for me works as a path that guides me out of it. It helps me deal with my emotions and moreover writing makes me feel at peace.