“My pen and paper don’t judge me”

In a world that’s always rushing forward, Class 9 student Shritika Ugale from Apeejay School, Nerul, finds stillness in poetry. With a diary as her confidante and verses as her voice, Shritika began penning poems at the age of 11, turning quiet reflections into powerful expressions. In this special Apeejay Promising Poet interview, she talks about her creative process, her emotional inspirations, and why poetry feels like the safest space she knows.  

Shritika, when did your love for poetry begin?
I started writing poems when I was around 11, back in 2021. It actually began as a casual “why not try” moment when we were asked to submit pieces for the school magazine. But soon enough, it turned into a small passion that grew with me.

What usually inspires you to write?
Whenever I feel tired of my surroundings or want to distract myself, I turn to my trusty diary. I just let whatever I’m feeling flow out. I find a word, then maybe a rhyme or a thought, and before I know it, I’ve created something beautiful. It’s like giving shape to my emotions.

Tell me the story behind your poem Loop. What were you feeling?
I wrote Loop during a week-long break in October 2024. As someone quite social, I suddenly felt isolated without my friends around. I began noticing how repetitive my days had become—doing the same things again and again. That’s where the line “never-ending chore” came from. Loop is really about that mental feeling of being stuck, not physically, but in patterns we don’t even realise we’re in until everything around us becomes quiet.

Do you prefer rhyme or free verse while writing?
Free verse is definitely my thing. It gives me the freedom to be real with my emotions—without worrying about sticking to a structure. Life doesn’t follow patterns, and neither do my thoughts. Free verse allows me to write in a way that feels true and honest.

What’s your ideal time to write poetry?
Definitely night. There’s something so peaceful about the world being asleep while I sit quietly with my thoughts. The stillness helps me focus, and in that calm, my emotions feel louder, clearer. It becomes a space where I can exist, reflect, and pour it all out.

How does your school encourage you as a poet?
My school gives us that space to be expressive and creative—whether it’s through supportive teachers or poetry competitions. It’s an environment that values art, and that encouragement really pushes me to keep writing and improving.

How do you usually approach writing a poem? And how long does it take you?
If I’m having a hectic day, I’ll pick a topic about the world and start with 2-3 lines. Then I slowly build on it over time. I never rush it—quality matters to me. For Loop, I spent around a week, writing 2-3 hours each day. My themes usually come from my own life experiences and struggles, though I’d love to explore nature and other topics too.

What’s the best part about writing poetry for you?
It’s my safe space. A place where I can speak freely—my fears, problems, everything—without worrying about being judged. My pen and paper listen without interrupting or labelling me. They keep my secrets safe. It’s like finally having someone who truly listens.