Perundevi: Where poetry meets experiment
Perundevi’s poetry is a canvas of constant experimentation. “I have explored various stylistic approaches in my collections. In my first book, I wrote poems without titles, subverting representational language,” she explains. Each subsequent collection, she says, shifts in imagination, technique, and narration. Yet, economy of words remains her hallmark.
Her style often gets categorised as anti poetry or pure poetry, but Perundevi remains unconcerned with such labels — “Let the critics handle that.” What sets her apart in the Tamil literary space is her authentic engagement with modern life’s predicaments, weaving in contemporary subjects with clarity.
Iranthavanin, Perundevi’s book of poems
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Focussing on everyday life, shaped by technology and globalisation, her poetry offers insights on fatigue and unspoken intimacy, capturing the undercurrents that define our time. “Unlike the single, linear path real life imposes, writing lets me imagine multiple outcomes for any event,” she notes.
Perundevi’s Avan Kannathil
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Over two decades, she has contributed 10 poetry collections, micro-fiction, essays and translations, establishing a versatile literary presence. A curious grapevine in the Tamil literary world suggests that Perundevi is also behind the anonymous poet Srivalli, whose lyrical poetry stands as a counterpoint to her own style. This duality adds another layer of intrigue to an already-multifaceted body of work.
Her poetry remains a dynamic presence in Tamil literature — where, as she puts it, “language reaches its boiling point”.
Bogan Sankar: Capturing life’s contradictions through playful verse
Bogan Sankar
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Tirunelveli-born poet Bogan Sankar crafts introspective and humorous poetry that reflects the contradictions of contemporary life.
Bogan Sankar, a poet hailing from Tirunelveli, has carved a niche in Tamil literature with his unique style that blends self-deprecating humour, restrained emotional expression, and an introspective lens on human existence. Through his finely crafted and concise poetry, Sankar explores the contradictions and absurdities of modern life, capturing its abstract nuances rather than its physical aspects.
Verungal Pathai, one of Bogan’s poplar works
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Sankar’s poetry is marked by its density and subtle playfulness — a characteristic that invites readers to reflect on the meaning, or meaninglessness, of life. While modernity provides the context for his works, his verses delve into the intangible, focussing on the pressures of existence rather than critiquing its societal constructs.
Bogan’s Thigiri
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Bogan Sankar’s works stand out for their ability to balance humor and depth. His poetry invites readers to not only embrace life but to also find beauty in its fleeting, unpredictable moments. “I ventured into literature rather late, after exploring various ways of life and arriving at the realisation that a life rooted in art is the most fulfilling. This has since become my driving force, my philosophy.”
With his evocative style, Bogan Sankar continues to shape Tamil poetry, offering a perspective that resonates with modern sensibilities while remaining timeless in its essence.
Vasugi Bhaskar – The emerging anti-caste voice
Vasugi Bhaskar
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Vasugi Baskar, editor of Neelam magazine and head of Neelam Publications, has emerged as an important voice in Tamil Nadu’s anti-caste discourse. Under the leadership of filmmaker Pa Ranjith, Neelam has become a powerful platform for challenging caste oppression and fostering equality through literature and critical discourse.
As editor, Baskar has ensured that Neelam remains steadfast in its anti-caste ideology. The magazine, now in its sixth year with 52 issues published, uses essays, poetry, and analyses to address caste-based inequalities, inspiring a new wave of Dalit literature and activism.
Baskar has ensured that Neelam remains steadfast in its anti-caste ideology
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Baskar’s impact extends beyond the written word. He plays a crucial role in Margazhiyil Makkalisai, an initiative democratising Tamil cultural traditions by challenging caste dominance, and coordinates the annual Verchol Literary Festival, which amplifies Dalit voices. He has also curated the Vaanam Literary Festival for three consecutive years.
Despite numerous commitments, Baskar has also explored filmmaking, producing a documentary on Melpathi, which has won international acclaim and continues to write, though he wishes for more time to dedicate to his craft. Reflecting on his journey, he says, “That I’ve consistently contributed to Neelam for over six years is something I’m proud of, and I want to continue this work.”
A. Vennila: A chronicler of history through the lives of ordinary people
Writer A. Vennila
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Writer, poet, and novelist A. Vennila has made significant contributions to Tamil literature with her powerful storytelling and historical narratives. Her three acclaimed novels Gangapuram, Chalampuri and Neerathikaram not only delve into rich historical contexts but also offer a unique lens into the lives of ordinary people.
Gangapuram, set in the Chola period, stands out for its portrayal of societal structures and the intricate workings of a community in ancient Tamil Nadu. Through vivid characters and their experiences, Vennila mirrors the complexities of life during this significant historical era.
Vennila’s acclaimed novel Gangapuram
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Chaalampuri, her second novel is set against the backdrop of the Dravidian party’s transition from the Dravidar Kazhagam to electoral politics. The work portrays the lives of its grassroots workers, interwoven with the backdrop of the weaving trade.
Her latest novel Neerathikaram takes a monumental step in exploring the struggles of people involved in the construction of the Mullaiperiyar Dam. This remarkable work sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of the labour force, giving voice to their stories of hardship, perseverance, and resilience.
Neerathikaram explores the struggles of people involved in the construction of the Mullaiperiyar Dam
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In addition to her fiction, Vennila’s poetry and short stories further reflect her deep connection to both historical narratives and modern-day issues. “I would like to be remembered as a writer who brought the life and history of Tamil into fiction through the lives of ordinary people” she says.
Published – January 15, 2025 03:27 pm IST
Friday Review
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The Hindu Lit For Life
