Under the vast indigo expanse of the night sky, shadows gather beneath open umbrellas, exchanging hushed words as a gentle rain begins to fall. The world around them feels almost reverent, as if it stands still at the dawn of time itself. Suddenly, a postcard arrives, bearing a poignant message that reads: “outside the window: a serpentine trail/ of sunlight. soft flames river their way/ towards our home. we are here,/ absent people, visible at night.” In these lines, Saranya Subramanian, a new voice in contemporary Indian poetry, captures the essence of being present yet distant, engaged yet detached.
Subramanian’s debut collection, titled Absent People, Absent Places, opens with a striking question that challenges the rampant apathy and anxiety we face in modern society. Her unique poetic style is both innovative and fluid, merging contemplative thoughts with a sense of casualness that resonates deeply. She writes about how the relentless rush of contemporary life pulls us into a whirlwind of activity, where our passions—be it languages, mathematics, or poetry—often clash with the mundane realities of our grey office spaces and monotonous meetings.
The poet’s exploration of absence extends beyond personal contemplation to touch on societal issues. She poignantly observes, “Such is the fate of those of us who live on the edge of a vibrant cultural tapestry, yet sometimes feel like ghosts in our own lives.” In her verses, Subramanian lays bare the increasing insensitivity that pervades society, pointing out that hate often emerges not only from overt hostility but also from the indifference of those who bear witness to injustice. This duality is encapsulated in her reflection on apathy, as she notes that a single spark of indifference can have devastating consequences, capable of igniting widespread destruction.
Subramanian’s work pushes readers to confront their own roles in this tapestry of existence. While she crafts evocative images of cityscapes and individual experiences, she also invites us to consider how our daily lives intersect with broader societal concerns. Her poetry serves as a mirror, reflecting our collective anxieties while urging us to look beyond ourselves.
In a world where quick fixes and distractions are often prioritized over genuine engagement, Subramanian’s verses serve as a refreshing reminder of the power of language and the importance of emotional connection. As her collection unfolds, readers will find themselves drawn into a landscape where the intricate dance of absence and presence plays out in vivid detail, encouraging a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.
