Letter #36 Agha Shahid Ali Poems, Longing and Creativity

The moon touched my shoulder and I longed for a vanished love - Agha Shahid Ali

Dear Friend,

Last night, as the heavy rain poured outside, I found myself unable to sleep. Seeking solace, I turned to podcasts, hoping to distract my restless mind. To my pleasant surprise, I came across a recitation of Agha Shahid Ali's poems. how memories flooded back to me; I recalled hearing this very recitation years ago. The profound impact it had on me remained intact, lingering within the depths of my soul. In the wake of this rediscovery, I felt compelled to relive those emotions once again. As soon as I awoke from my sleepless night, I promptly ordered the book.

But this time it was different, It didn’t create the same magic. I started thinking that how we have all suffered losses—the people we love, the things we cherished, and the homes we held dear. How we carry those memories within us, how we seek solace in the search for new connections and meaningful possessions that can fill the same void. And how we are Inexplicably drawn to individuals and objects that resonate with our souls, they may temporarily fill the emptiness left.

Notably, Shahid's poems explore similar themes. I have yet to encounter another writer who captures the essence of longing as profoundly as he does. Everyone I've met who has encountered Shahid's work shares a deep resonance with his words, acknowledging the profound impact they have had on their own lives.

The power of heartbreak and longing is undeniably transformative, often inspiring creativity. I can certainly attest to this in my own experience. Bohemian Dialogue is a product of it.

I’ll write again, my friend.

Yours,

Bohemian Dialogue