An Anthology by Rakesh Chandra
Reviewed by Khursheed Ahmad Wani
The Sunset Musings by Rakesh Chandra is an illuminating key to the imagination, offering 121 softly glowing poems on aesthetic themes. Rakesh Chandra, hailing from Uttar Pradesh, is a former civil servant. The homeland of his is also known as the land of poets whose incredible contributions elevate the literary field to the next level. Notable figures included Tulsidas, Surdas, Nirala, Harivansh Rai Bachchan and many more. Until now, he has written two anthologies ‘Moon is Black’ and ‘Circle of Life’ in English language; one in Hindi ‘Mere Shahar Me’; also a book on Rekha Chitra “Be Chehre Wale Log”; in addition, he also has authored three books on Law. The poet has dedicated this anthology to his parents, which was published by Authors Press.
The gateway that invites the readers, written by the poet himself, reflects his emotional resonance with the nature’s elegance and the folk around.
On 27th Oct. 2024, I have received two poetry books and fortunately one of the poems I came across is ‘Dancing with Death’ at page 17 in the book ‘The Sunset Musings’, which reflects a complex experience of consciousness, courage, and zest for life and twilight years. The use of ‘lovely butterflies’, ‘child inside’, ‘gentle breeze’, ‘wizened look’ and ‘winter flowers’ adds poetic beauty to the poem. The poem epitomizes the beauty of the soul and the struggles through the cycle of life. The readers can find a unique poetic voice throughout the entire poem.
At page 19, ‘My Heart Throbs in Sunshine’ reflects a quest for emotional endurance through metaphors and imagery. The use of these literary devices creates emotional depth in the poem. The interplay between different colours shows how good is the poet in depicting his reflections and experiences of life through verses.
Journeying deeper in the book, at page 29, ‘Joys of Blossoming’, reflects the transformation from innocence to maturity both in nature as well as in the human life. The use of symbolism makes the poem a vivid example of creativity where the readers visualize and experience the scenes more clearly. The poet is adept at using literary devices that make his work a serene poetic journey full of love, tranquility, the beauties and bounties of nature, and emotional depths.
‘Feeding the Parrot’, at page 43, reflects a seraphic attachment between the poet and the pet bird. In parallel the poet presents the haplessness of the pet being in a cage. The way the poet correlates his own life’s transience to the caged bird is awe-inspiring. Mostly, in his poems the readers finds phrases runs over from one verse of poetry the next without syntax. This technique will surely bind the readers to the poetic arc.
At page 49, ‘Flute of Love’, is a poem that beautifully pays a soulful homage to the better half with melodious words. The overall coherence of the poem is quite good that will definitely help in keeping the reader’s interest.
Venturing further, at page 74, there is a poem ‘The Sunset Musings,’ reflects on the serendipity of the sunset. The poet has artistically drawn a contrast between the nature elements which makes the whole poem beautiful. Moreover, in the poem, using alliteration is like adding sugar to coffee.
‘Let Me Hold Your Hand forever’, at page 103, reflects enamored emotions that make this poem a merry odyssey of love. The rhythm of the poem is nice and will have the potential to sway the readers from one stanza to the other merrily. It is the special part of his pen that regularly makes the readers to be inspired by his thoughts. Another poem at page 109, ‘One Day in the life of a “White Collar” Donkey,’ reflects a laughable reflection, when the poet starts his job in a small town. Furthermore, readers will discover for themselves how beautifully it is crafted.
Exploring further, at page 113, ‘Mirth Spreads from Leaf to Leaf,’ reflects an intense bond between nature and happiness. One can find the merriment that hides deeply in the verses. The word choice is compelling and mostly efficient. Another poem ‘Clean Slate is My Heart’, is a poignant poem rich in imagery. It reflects the unfulfilled desire of the poet.
The epilogue at page 139, ‘The Jungle Lore,’ reflects the beauty of the natural world. The use of visual images like serpentine tracks, tall green leaves, thick foliage, etc make this poem an ideal poem.
‘The Sunset Musings’ is an epitome of perfection where readers will immerse in lyrical reflections and will dissolve into them like water in water. Rakesh Chandra has put this anthology in good shape, arranged all the poems wonderfully. He has a strong grip on phraseology. All the poems have the potential to attract poetry lovers globally. Throughout the anthology, he makes an excellent use of literary devices. It is more than just a book. It is a tribute to the literary world. I wish Rakesh Chandra all the best. Sir, you’re going to do great things!
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