Mysore/Mysuru: “Poetry is a search route for  the fine blend of knowledge and happiness. It seeks to overcome the fantasies of new world and unravel the reality. Because of this reason, poetry has more responsibility now than ever before,” opined critic Dr. R. Tarini Shubhadayini.

She made these observations at a function organised to mark the release of a book ‘Gaaliya Ede Seeli Horata Hakki’  anthology of poems penned  by poet S.K. Manjunath, at Rotary auditorium on JLB road in the city on Mar. 16. The function was organised jointly by Mysuru Geleyaru and Lumbini Prakashana.

“Many wonder whether literary enthusiasts have lost interest in  poetry. This is mainly because a new narrative is being practiced to understand poetry. We are now at a time where we are trying to understand the literature according to our social strata. Even our understanding and writing sensibilities are bordering  our political ideologies. If we observe the decades of the 21st century, it appears we are in a period of negation, refuting what we have in the present system. No efforts are made to create anything new. Hence, we face the question; Do We  lack interest to read poetry,” said Dr. Tarini.

Continuing, she said that poetry has that inherent seed in it which can grow as a big tree.” We only need to ensure a smooth passage for that. Unlike prose, poetry doesn’t convey anything directly. Light reflects directly everywhere but it reflects in a zig zag manner in water. Similarly, poetry is a medium of refraction  and expression of thoughts. It conveys something even as it hides something. Poetry should not just be a medium of expression. Rather, it should be a quest for truth. Poetry is also  a path of knowledge, happiness and wisdom for a community,” added the critic.

“We are perhaps at the preparatory level to herald a new era of the rise of knowledge, through poetry. But we are facing a paucity of proper planning to demolish the old house and to build a new one in its place,” concluded critic Dr.Tarini.

Earlier Wildlife Photographer Krupakar released the book. Writer G.P. Basavaraju presided.

Writer Modoor Teja, S.K. Manjunath and Prof. Govindaraju Lakshmipura were present.