Why poetry matters in the age of instant media consumption

Poetic Expression

In a world inundated with rapid media consumption, the enduring significance of poetry stands as a testament to the timeless power of words. Arundhathi Subramaniam, an acclaimed Indian poet, sheds light on the creatively liberating aspects of poetry ahead of her participation in the India By The Creek festival. Through an interview with Anamika Chatterjee, Subramaniam reflects on her journey with poetry and its relevance in contemporary society.

For Subramaniam, poetry is not merely a means of expression but a profound engagement with language's kinetic essence. From an early age, she was captivated by poetry's ability to transcend ordinary communication, to dance and soar with unparalleled agility. This fascination with the mercurial nature of poetry propelled her towards a lifelong commitment to the art form.

Her debut anthology of poems, published in 2001, marked the beginning of a literary journey that has since established her as a leading voice in Indian poetry. Over two decades, Subramaniam has delved into existential inquiries and profound explorations of spirituality, using poetry as her primary medium of exploration.

While Subramaniam has also ventured into prose writing, it is the unpredictable and enigmatic qualities of poetry that continue to allure her. Poetry's capacity for economy, distillation, paradox, and ambiguity distinguishes it as a unique form of artistic expression. Above all, it is poetry's embrace of silence that resonates deeply with Subramaniam, allowing for contemplation and introspection beyond the confines of language.

The interview delves into Subramaniam's personal journey with poetry, revealing how it serves as both a means of self-expression and self-discovery. For her, poetry represents a profound connection to oneself, offering a pathway to navigate the complexities of human existence.

In addition to her exploration of personal themes, Subramaniam has also delved into spirituality, drawn to its profound inquiries into pain, loss, and the impermanence of life. Through her writing, she grapples with fundamental questions that transcend individual experience, tapping into universal truths that resonate with readers across cultures and generations.

As Subramaniam prepares to share her insights on poetry at the India By The Creek festival, her words serve as a reminder of the enduring relevance of poetry in an era dominated by instant media consumption. In a world where attention spans are fleeting and information overload is the norm, poetry offers a sanctuary for introspection and contemplation.

Through its rhythmic cadence and evocative imagery, poetry transcends the noise of modern life, inviting readers to pause, reflect, and connect with the deeper currents of human experience. Subramaniam's advocacy for poetry serves as a poignant reminder of its enduring power to illuminate the human condition and inspire profound moments of insight and understanding.

As attendees of the India By The Creek festival engage with Subramaniam's poetry and insights, they are invited to embark on a journey of self-discovery and contemplation, guided by the timeless wisdom of poetic expression. In a world where the pace of life shows no signs of slowing down, poetry remains a steadfast companion, offering solace, inspiration, and a refuge for the soul.