Through your words, you show yourself to the world

Virginia Wolfe was right when she said, “For most of human history, anonymous was a woman”. Noyonika Dev Sharma understands, embraces and fights the plight a woman faces in the modern world. The young feminist is aware that though the nation celebrated Navratri only recently, still they will subject a woman to age old stereotypes despite worshiping her for more than a week twice a year. The budding poet has highlighted the same in her poem, ‘Woman’

In the Apeejay Special Promising Poets interview, the class 12 student at Apeejay School, Nerul speaks about the experiences that inspired her to write about gender equality in her recent poem ‘Woman’ and also offers words of wisdom for budding poets. Edited excerpts

At what age did you start writing poetry?

I have been into creative writing since I was 13 years of age, but I took to writing poetry during the first lockdown.

What was the inspiration behind picking up the pen?

Mainly it was to process my feelings against how drastically my life had changed due to Covid-19 pandemic. It also helped me to gain perspective about the greater things at play in this world.

Who is your favorite poet and what is your favorite poem?

My favorite poet is William Wordsworth and his evergreen poem “Daffodils” is one of my favorites.

Tell us about the process of writing a poem?

It starts with a general thought appearing in my mind which makes me want to write it down. So, the first writeup consists of my initial thoughts about the same which I then add structure to.

Rhyme or free verse?

Free verse is always preferred since it helps my thoughts to flow freely.

How does Apeejay school, Nerul help you to write such good verses?

Some aspects of creative writing I picked up from my school English textbooks with their deep sources of poetry.  Also, my school life experience has enriched the artist in me a lot. My teachers and friends add so many variations to my perception of life and things. 

 What was the thought behind your recent poem on women equality?

It has always been at the back of my mind as an active feminist, but the recent happenings all around along with the constant social stigma against our gender made me want to throw light on it in my own way. So, this poem was born. 

What are your next poems?

I am not completely sure but I am thinking of delving into a personal story of mine regarding how a normal teenager like me is passing her life amidst this changing modern world.

One advice for budding poets?

Always be true to yourself instead of following the crowd. Writing is not something you do for the world, it’s something you do to show yourself to the world.