Splinter and other Poems

by Gulzar

A hint of romance, a twinge of regret, the lingering pain of separation. Gulzar, in his indomitable style, weaves a tapestry of myriad moods in this deeply touching collection of poetry. Deftly capturing the visuals of each poem, effortlessly painting words with a stroke of the pen, Gulzar takes readers on a journey into the unpredictable world of love. A selection of poems from Gulzar's Silences and Autumn Moon, which were translated by Rina Singh and J.P. Das respectively

395 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Aysik Mondal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Gulzar's 'Splinter & Other Poems' is a collection of poems translated (by Rina Singh & J.P Das) in English. The preface illustrated how the poems are going to be cinematic-like 'Shot-Shot' furnishing a slice-of-life character.

The poems are unsalted & simplistic, a pain-infused amalgamation of love & loss. The poems are rightfully graphic, but not overdramatic. The micro-poem format works here because of the concord of the subject matters. Love, lust, illicit affairs, exploitation, negligence, one-sided attraction; are intensely canvassed in the anecdotes.

While reading the poems, it becomes explicit that nonetheless translation is obliged to scale down the lyrical magic of originality. But saying that, Rina Singh & J.P Das did their best. Few poems do have a repeat value. The picturesque flow of the poems fulfil the cinematic promise, creates a true-to-life ambience where you relax down with screenshots of passionate discontent.

I am sure Gulzar writes better, wish to read more of his poetry. It is a small collection with small commitments. Give it a read to have a glimpse of the lyrical mastery that you are yet to traverse.

SPLINTER

A piece of a poem
drifts in my breath.
All day long.

I rolled it in my mouth,
it cut my tongue.
I held it in my teeth
it bruised my lips
like a splinter of glass.
I can neither swallow it
nor throw it out.

[Rishita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual Rating: 4.5/5

[Nidhi Srivastava · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautiful as expected, however, all the while I was reading the book, I was trying to translate it in my head, was trying to imagine what original verse might be. That is the reason for one less star. Though translator did a good job, I do not think the beauty of Gulzar's poem can be truly captured in translations.

[Dipika Bangera · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always loved Gulzar's works and this book of poems is no exception.

He unfailingly captures the essence of our thoughts. One quote below which I liked
'cause all that goes away, comes back, that's the law of Gravity- in love.'

I would have preferred the original to the translation but for the time being this will do.