Tishani Doshi’s ‘Egrets, While War’: A Reflection on Life’s Complexities Through Poetry

Acclaimed poet Tishani Doshi has unveiled her latest poetry collection, titled Egrets, While War, which delves deeply into themes of loss, struggle, love, and the multifaceted nature of existence. Through her vivid language and imaginative style, Doshi captures the essence of human emotions, presenting her readers with an evocative exploration of life’s intricate tapestry.

In an insightful conversation with Scroll, Doshi elaborated on her creative process, revealing that her approach to writing poetry is not driven by the intent to compile a cohesive book from the outset. Instead, she emphasizes a more organic method, crafting each poem independently. For her, the thrill lies in the intimate act of poetry, where every piece is unique and emerges from a place of spontaneity. “I can’t precisely articulate how my poems come into being—there’s an element of mystery,” she admitted, reflecting on the subconscious challenges that accompany her writing.

Doshi described a gradual evolution in her body of work, where a collection begins to take shape over time. After spending two to three years on her craft, distinct themes often surface, creating a sense of kinship among the poems. “At some point, it feels as if they belong together, forming a family of poems destined for a book,” she explained, illustrating the natural progression of her writing journey.

Particularly poignant is the backdrop against which Egrets, While War was conceived. Doshi began penning her verses in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, a time when many hoped for a transformed, more compassionate world. This collection reflects not only her personal experiences but also a shared human narrative, resonating with readers navigating their own feelings of uncertainty and longing in a rapidly changing landscape.

As an artist, Doshi regards poetry as a vehicle for reflection and connection. She views her work as an expression of the body’s inner life, laden with mystery and depth. Through her words, she invites her audience to engage with the complexities of existence, encouraging a dialogue about art’s purpose in illuminating the human condition. With Egrets, While War, Tishani Doshi continues to solidify her place in contemporary Indian literature, offering profound insights that reflect both personal and collective experiences.

Source: scroll.in