Kollam: The publication of new poems is a regular occurrence. However, only those works that provoke readers’ thoughts through their unique language and mode of expression survive the test of time. Young poet Nithinkumar J’s poetry collection, ‘Otta’ (Alone/Single), is considered to be a work that offers exactly such a reading experience. It is the foreword written by the prominent poet Alankode Leelakrishnan that has garnered the book significant attention in the literary world.
“These poems carry the experiences, feelings, and emotions of our poetic culture thus far. Yet, the poetry stands fundamentally distinct, as if to say ‘the measure of my language is different’. This standing apart is the hallmark of Nithinkumar’s poems.” – This very assessment by Alankode Leelakrishnan accurately defines the literary character of the book.
Published by Book Nest, ‘Otta’ features a compilation of 44 poems. The collection encompasses poems based on numerous emotions and phases of life, including love, separation, solitude, isolation, survival, family dynamics, dreams, hatred, and revenge. The central focus of each poem is the attempt to understand the inner psychological world of human beings.
Another distinguishing feature of this collection is the presentation of profound ideas through short poems. Without using excessive words, the poet endeavors to create experiences that linger long in the reader’s mind. The approach of linking an individual’s personal life experiences with the broader canvas of society also makes this work truly noteworthy.
Born in 1996 in Chavara, Kollam district, Nithinkumar J is an active presence in contemporary Malayalam literature across the realms of short stories, poetry, novels, and comics. He has also served as the editor for numerous anthologies as part of the Nizhal Sahithyavedi (Nizhal Literary Forum).
Spanning 82 pages, ‘Otta’ is priced at ₹170. The book is available in bookstores, at book festivals, and across online sales platforms. For more information, one can contact the number 7994766150.
Readers are warmly embracing the book, recognizing it as a noteworthy addition to contemporary Malayalam poetry.
