Unveiling the midnight muse – A young poet’s journey from adversity to art

Amidst a world confined within walls, back in 2020, Harsh Rathore’s verses emerged as a beacon, lifting his spirits and providing an outlet for his emotions on paper. Selected as this week’s Promising Poet, the Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication (AIMC) student graciously opens up about his poetic journey and the profound connection he has forged with the art of writing.

At what age did you start writing poetry?
I embarked on my poetic journey at the divine age of sweet 16.

What inspired you to write poems?
Reading the works of some of the most renowned poets gave me strength during certain low phases of my life.

Tell us the thought behind your poem “Haan hum khoobsurat hai aur hai dilwaale”?
The thought behind this poem was simple: Why bother about what others say? Be self-motivated and believe in yourself that you are the best.

Who is your favorite poet, and what is your favorite poem?
Shakeel Azmi is my favorite poet, and his poem ‘हर घड़ी चश्म-ए-ख़रीदार में रहने के लिए’ resonates deeply with me.

Rhyme or free verse?
Mostly rhyme.

Writing poems in the day or night?
Midnight, the typical poet style. I love writing in that silence. It is a divine hour.

How does your institute help you write such lovely poems?
My institute teaches me real-life lessons and provides quality time for self-expression and learning.

How do you approach writing a poem? How much time does it take you? What are your common writing themes?
For me, poetry was the lifeline during the corona period, helping me overcome sadness, grief, and pain.