from there to herefrom here to wherewhat a journeyin search of querencia he derides my kneeling posturethen, my folded handsand saysGo find it within … What a laconic expressionfor an iconic journeyfrom my world perceptionto a place inside me I only want sturmfreiwithout going astraythe devil’s wayA smooth sashayOf inspiring raysinto the core It matters … Continue reading Better connected
It feels great to be on the seaside jotting down thoughts, the feeling of anonymity exhilarating, as I shed the burden of ego and constructed self. Stories flow smoothly with a pen-name - it’s not seen as confession or spilled secrets. Somehow, the characters evolve into different beings and act in a manner not envisaged … Continue reading Fiction
The light is unaware of the lens above it. The fluid in the glass is about to splash in excitement, but stops as it feels being spied upon. Can you believe this was just before the advent of the Aliens? The Innocent did not know their lives were being taken over. Thereafter, they became specimens … Continue reading A new era
“There are no permanent enemies or friends in politics”, sighed the party loyalist on seeing his leader shake hands with their bete noire, “all the intense battles we fought have come to nought today.” “The quest for power demands a different discipline. Nobody hands over power to you on a platter,” came another voice with … Continue reading Eclipse
The chamber is dark, but she can sense blood trickling towards the door. Her entire life is being streamed live by some unknown source … and yes, she discovers truths she had missed, or rather chosen to deny. She wants to make accusations, seek explanations or correct certain perspectives, including her own. But the grip … Continue reading Finale
I clearly see the reflection of outdoor greenery on the television screen, but can’t see her. Her handbag lies open on the couch. Where is she? Am I turning voyeuristic? Yes, but into people’s minds. I want to see if she turns towards the books or the long-stemmed giant red rose. The last three visitors … Continue reading Inclusion
Shobhaa De is a 74 year old pulp fiction author with a long series of books, and Starry Nights is one of her titles. She attracted attention for portraying the sleaziness of higher echelons of society. I've just played around with her book titles for this piece. Snapshots of Sultry days Socialite Evenings Starry nights … Continue reading Shobhaa De – in 100 words
There is so much parking space, but she is not in her car today. Delicious lunch in a small cafe, buying a glamor magazine and an intellectual book from the roadside vendor, followed by a lazy afternoon in the salon getting a facial done is her idea of pure bliss. The road still looks deserted … Continue reading Minimalist
“I can’t leave this behind”. She wailed. “But why? It’s not easy to lug it around, when movement is uncertain.” “My grandma enjoyed the outdoors with us on this chair - in the garden, on the beach and wherever our fancy would take us.” “I’m sure you don’t want her to see fire raining from … Continue reading Packing a life
She’s accused of being unsocial. They spare no opportunity to blame her for indifference or breaking rules set by others. She understands the reason for animosity is a personality difference, but does not understand what stops them from minding their own business. Another accusation flies, another shard cuts her soul, another day brings in a … Continue reading Right to Be
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