Soham Ahir, a class 6 student with Tanda Road, has penned a poem that is indeed the need of the hour – “Climate Change”. Every natural resource is polluted, from soil, to water and now even the air. Selected as this week’s Promising Poet, Soham spreads awareness about climate change and explains what poetry means to him.
At what age did you embark on your poetic journey?
I delved into the realm of poetry at the tender age of 10.
What served as the catalyst for your poetic pursuits?
My initial inspiration sprouted from the guidance and encouragement of my father, who was a firm believer in my poetic potential.
Unraveling the Thought Behind ‘The Change’: Can you shed light on the inspiration behind this piece?
Given the opportunity to craft a poem, I found myself drawn to the poignant issue of smoggy air quality. It felt like a canvas waiting to be painted with words.
Who stands atop your pedestal of poetic influences, and is there a specific masterpiece that resonates with you the most?
My poetic polestar is none other than Robert Frost, and the piece that captivates my soul is “Complete Nonsense” by Edward Lear.
Rhyme or Free Verse: What is your poetic preference, and why?
I find solace in the structured beauty of rhyme; the rhythmic symphony of words falling into a particular scheme appeals to my poetic sensibilities.
Does your creativity flow more freely during the day or under the cloak of night?
Night time unveils a more rhythmic vocabulary within me, and I find my creative muse most active during those quiet hours.
How has your school nurtured your poetic talent?
My school, with its nurturing environment, played a pivotal role. Initially nudged by my English teacher, the literature section at my school continues to be a haven for poetic exploration. Beyond that, my friends have become instrumental in refining the art of rhyme.
Can you walk us through your poetic process? How do you approach a poem, and what themes dominate your creations?
Contemplating prevalent themes, I transmute them into poetic verses. It typically takes me a minimum of two days to meticulously finalize a poem. My recurrent themes orbit around the realms of computers, school, nature, and the enchantment of science fiction.
Lastly, what does the act of crafting poetry signify for you personally?
Beyond filling the voids of my free time, the true essence lies in the profound satisfaction derived from dedicating thoughtful moments to explore topics close to my heart. Crafting poetry becomes a meditative and rewarding endeavour.