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Kolkata's Poetry Scene: From Margins to Mainstream
7 Feb
Summary
- Kolkata's English poetry scene evolved significantly over three decades.
- Sharmila Ray collaborated with artist MF Hussain on a book cover.
- Younger generations often scroll rather than read physical books.
Sharmila Ray, a poet and historian, has witnessed Kolkata's English poetry scene transform over three decades. It has moved from an uncertain pursuit to a more recognized literary space, with increased platforms and publisher engagement now available.
Ray's academic background in history significantly informs her writing, providing a crucial political and global context. A notable moment in her career was collaborating with artist MF Hussain, who graciously painted the cover for her book "Living Other Lives."
Observing current trends, Ray expresses concern about the reading habits of younger generations, who she feels predominantly scroll rather than read. She notes that book fairs, while still popular, have lost some of their discovery charm compared to the online shopping era.
Despite these shifts, Ray remains optimistic about Kolkata's literary future, acknowledging the expanded reach facilitated by social media and the diverse linguistic talent emerging. Her advice to aspiring poets emphasizes patience and grounding, likening poetry to a craft requiring sustained effort rather than instant success.
