Exploring Existential Themes: Saranya Subramanian’s Poetic Debut ‘Absent People, Absent Places’

Underneath the vast, starry expanse of the night sky, shadows gather beneath umbrellas, sharing hushed conversations as a gentle drizzle begins to fall. The atmosphere is serene, reminiscent of the primordial silence that enveloped the universe at its inception. In this tranquil setting, a postcard finds its way into my hands, bearing the poignant words: “Outside the window: a serpentine trail of sunlight. Soft flames river their way towards our home. We are here, absent people, visible at night. I am here, an absent person, but I am still here, sitting still. Still waters freeze in fear. Outside, the hate speech gets louder…”

Saranya Subramanian’s debut poetry collection, titled Absent People, Absent Places, opens with a striking inquiry that challenges the apathy and existential dread pervading contemporary society. Her poetic expression is marked by a unique blend of creativity and simplicity, exuding both contemplation and a sense of casualness. The collection presents a reflective critique of our fast-paced lives, where the relentless pursuit of productivity often overshadows deeper connections.

As Subramanian weaves her verses, she captures the essence of urban life in India, where the cacophony of daily existence sometimes drowns out individual voices. “We are swept away by the frantic need to do, and do now. Our love for languages—his, math, mine, poetry—constantly jostles against our maya-driven, caffeinated legs, perpetually running to grey offices and grey meetings.” This vivid imagery encapsulates the struggle many face in balancing their cultural identities with the demands of modern life.

Through her poignant prose, Subramanian confronts the notion of apathy, suggesting that it is not merely the overt acts of hatred that harm society, but also the indifference of those who choose to look away. “Hate, I learn, is not those mobs that ash people down. It is the casual shrug of the unaffected; a single spark of apathy that, once lit, can burn an entire forest down.” This profound observation serves as a reminder of the impact that individual disengagement can have on the broader community.

In Absent People, Absent Places, Saranya Subramanian invites readers to reflect on their own lives and the societal constructs that shape them. Her ability to convey complex emotions and thoughts through simple yet evocative language makes her work accessible and relatable. As India grapples with numerous social issues, her poetry resonates deeply, urging us to confront the uncomfortable truths of our existence while simultaneously celebrating the beauty of language and connection.

Source: scroll.in