Poetry is documentation of time: Shyamal

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, May 11: The literary group Bartaman Kabita Samuha featured him in the third edition of its 'Discourse with the Seniors' programme series.

Shyamal, a celebrated poet of the 1980s, shared his perceptions regarding poetry with the remark, "One cannot claim the water is cold without diving into the river; writing poetry is much the same." 

The event witnessed an intensive dialogue on literature, society, language, culture, and the various dimensions of contemporary Nepali poetry. Participants noted that the event fostered a vibrant literary atmosphere, facilitating an exchange of experiences, ideas, and creativity between the veteran poet and the newer generation.

Shyamal has already enriched Nepali literature with four works, including poetry collections 'Tapaiharumarfat', 'Layabrahma', and 'Hatarma Yatra' and a collection of essays titled 'Ritto Gaun.'

Two more of his works, one poetry collection and one essay collection, are currently in the pipeline. During the event, speakers discussed his literary contributions, intellectual depth, and commitment to social issues.

Shyamal shared the intriguing highs and lows of his journey, recounting how he continued his writing during the adverse Panchayat era while remaining underground. Under title names like Nakshatra Sharma and Harish Dikpal, he maintained his creative pursuit before eventually establishing himself as Shyamal.

Through his life's resolve and writing journey, he illustrated how writers and litterateurs contribute to enriching Nepali literature by maintaining creativity and freedom of expression even under difficult political and social circumstances.

Shyamal emphasised that poetry is not merely a dry expression but a sensitivity of society and a document of time. He highlighted that literature plays a vital role in making individuals and society conscious.

Furthermore, he spoke about the changing culture of study, the influence of social media, and the creativity of the new generation.

He recited several poems, sharing the stories behind their creation, including 'Silicon Sundari ra Plastic ka Kabiharu', 'Sankatkal ma Sahawas', 'Ratko Humla', 'Kehi Darlagda Namharu', 'Powerhouse' and 'Maina Sunarki Aama.'

Shyamal also recited a poem titled 'Freedom' by Kurdish poet Sherko Bekas in Nepali, translated by the former. Participants remarked that his poems powerfully reflect contemporary society, political realities, and human emotions.

Shyamal’s contemporary poet, Sneh Sayami, reminisced about their shared journey. He noted that while the writing activities of the past were fraught with struggle, those days were filled with immense enthusiasm. Sayami also recited his poems 'Chetanako Pakshaghat' and 'Yatra.'

Sharada Adhikari, the spouse of poet Shyamal, also recited a poem titled 'Shanti Nepali', penned by the latter.

Other poets, including Dhir Kumar Shrestha, Bishwa Sigdel, Prakash Ramghali, Sunita Khanal, Chachu, Chandra Bahadur Lama, and Rami Priya also presented their poems.

Bishwa Sigdel of the Bartaman Kabita Samuha stated that the event series is run with the objective of introducing the new generation to veteran creators. "We hope such literary events help bridge the generational gap and provide creative inspiration to emerging writers," he said.