‘The best thing about writing poetry is the ability to express deep emotions’

Parents are the only people who selflessly wish good for us. They love us without any expectation, and it is the only bond where there is no transactional value attached. Srishti Vashisth, a budding student poet at Apeejay Stya University (ASU), knows the value of our ‘true guardians’ and wonderfully expresses this in her poem. Selected as this week’s Apeejay Promising Poet, let’s dive into the world of this talented young artist and discover what inspires her craft.

At what age did you start writing poetry?

I started writing poetry when I was about 13 or 14 years old.

What inspired you to write poems?

My uncle, a writer, always encouraged me to read and write. Being an introvert, poetry became a way for me to express my feelings and emotions through words.

Can you tell us the thought behind your poem True Guardians?

The poem celebrates the enduring bond between parents and their children, highlighting the complexities and deep emotions involved in familial relationships. I aim to evoke appreciation for the irreplaceable role of family in our lives, capturing the emotional depth and resilience of the parent-child relationship. In short, my poem celebrates the unbreakable bond between parents and children, emphasizing the enduring love, support, and unity that define family relationships through life’s challenges and joys.

Excellent! So, who is your favorite poet and what is your favorite poem?

My favourite poet is Robert Frost, particularly his poem “The Road Not Taken”. It reflects on the significance of choosing one path over another and the impact such decisions have on our lives. This poem resonates deeply with me because it mirrors the universal experience of making choices in life.

And do you prefer writing in rhyme or free verse?

It depends on my mood. Rhyme offers musicality and structure but can feel restrictive. Free verse provides freedom and flexibility but requires careful crafting to maintain its impact. If I had to choose, I would lean towards rhyme.

Do you write poems during the day or at night?

I prefer writing poems at night. The nighttime environment provides a quiet atmosphere, enhanced inspiration, and a personal creativity flow.

How does Apeejay Stya University encourage you to write such lovely poems?

We have great professors who always encourage and appreciate our talent, providing valuable guidance and support.

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

I can get inspiration at any time from anywhere, and as soon as I get it, I start writing. Sometimes, if I have a lot of thoughts in my mind, I draft freely and then refine them into words. Writing a poem can take anywhere from minutes to weeks, depending on complexity and inspiration flow. My common themes include personal insights, experiences, and fictional stories turned into poetry.

Finally, what is the best thing about writing poetry for you?

The best thing about writing poetry is the ability to express deep emotions, explore personal insights, and capture moments or ideas in a uniquely creative way. It allows me to connect with others on an emotional level and convey feelings that might be difficult to express through other forms of communication. Additionally, poetry provides me with a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction through the act of creating something beautiful or meaningful with words.