With over 15 years in the Middle East—specifically in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain—poet Chandra Gurung brings a distinctive perspective to his work. His poetry in Nepali reflects his diverse life experiences.

Beyond the confines of his native language, Gurung also works as a translator, translating works from English, Hindi and Arabic into Nepali. Among his notable publications are ‘Usko Mutu Vitra Desh Ko Naksha Nai Thyena’ (2008) and ‘My Father’s Face’ (2020). Most recently, he released ‘Jaba Euta Manche Haraucha’ in 2022.

In this conversation with the Post’s Anish Ghimire, Gurung discusses his reading habits, poetry and literature acting as an escape from daily life.

What role has reading played in shaping your identity as a poet?

I remember, as a kid, the neatly arranged books on the bookshelves fascinated me. My hands were always reaching towards the books, and the touch of the pages provided a sense of comfort and happiness. So, a love for reading developed since my school days. When I started schooling, my grandfather was the one who helped me with my homework and studies. I remember my grandfather had a lot of books stored in a steel trunk. In his company, I learnt that there was the existence of various types of books other than the academic curriculum. Since then, I have been reading and learning a lot.

One cannot write without reading, so the reading habit has played a huge role in shaping my identity as a poet. I love to write about the society where I live. Also, the people I interact with in my life find space in my poems.

Is there a connection between the style of your poetry and the types of literature you consume?

Definitely, writers are shaped by the works of other writers they read. The books we read as children influence our tastes and can often impact our writing styles. Our reading habits can shape how we want to carry ourselves in our writing. I love to read social, political or moral agendas prevailing around me. These are the essential elements of my poems, too.

Can you share some of your favourite literary works or authors that have had a significant impact on your poetry?

I have read Bhupi Sherchan, Bikram Subba and many other Nepali poets. Their poems deal with the issues of the day-to-day life of Nepalis. Most of these poets have featured the problems of their time, human celebrations and absurdities of life in their writings. Their poems have excellent portrayals of life, death and human psychology. My favourite poets are Polish poet Wislawa Szymborska, Israeli poet Yehuda Amichai and Indian poet Kedarnath Singh.

You worked in the Middle East for fifteen years. Was literature an escape from your hectic schedule?

Working life abroad is mundane. You go to work, come back, eat and sleep. In such situations, reading and writing were an escape from my hectic routine life. I was deeply immersed in the world of poetry and the feelings brought by it. While abroad, I wrote poems about longing, love for my homeland, and feelings of dislocation due to immigration.

Are there certain societal or cultural issues that poets should address in their works?

By addressing the issues of their time, poets can make significant contributions to campaigns for social justice. Poetry’s place in society as a whole is cemented by its capacity to communicate consciousness of experience. I’m adamant that authors should preserve the essence of their communities and share it with readers.

In the context of Nepal, corrupt politicians and a lack of political vision have ruined the new democracy right from the start. We must write about the daily injustice that we face due to the negligence of our leaders. Our writings must oppose all forms of evil, bring about societal awareness and make us think critically about the present socio-political situation.

Chandra Gurung’s book recommendations

Why Poetry

Author: Matthew Zapruder
Year: 2017
Publisher: Ecco

By exploring the intricacies of poetic expression, this book encourages readers to appreciate the beauty of language and emotions woven into verses. It dismantles the notion that poetry is cryptic or reserved for scholars, emphasising that it’s a form of artistic expression that everyone can engage with.

The Life of Poetry

Author: Muriel Rukeyser

Year: 1996

Publisher: Paris Press

‘The Life of Poetry’ is a literary work that goes beyond the surface, providing readers with a deep understanding of the rich and vibrant world of poetry. It acts as a window, not just into the world of poetry but also into the human experience, emotions and imagination.

Akaal Mein Saras

Author: Kedarnath Singh

Year: 1988

Publisher: RajKamal Prakashan

This book shows how a talented poet can skillfully use language to craft a beautiful poem. In every part of ‘Akaal Mein Saras’, the words are chosen and arranged thoughtfully, creating a deep and evocative expression.

Ghamka Pahilaharu

Author: Dhanush Chandra Gotame
Year: 1979

Publisher: Sajha Prakashan

‘Ghamka Pailaharu’ is a novel that covers ordinary and relatable daily life of a family, making it an accurate reflection of the experiences of many middle-income families in our society. The novel shows the life, struggles and aspirations of the family.

Ghumne Mech Mathi Andho Manchhe

Author: Bhupi Sherchan
Year: 1969

Publisher: Sajha Prakashan

‘Ghumne Mechmathi Andho Manchhe’ serves as a potent mirror reflecting the realities of our society with remarkable clarity. It unveils the true face of society, exposing its strengths, weaknesses and the complexities that often go unnoticed.