The Forest I Know

by Kala Ramesh

Tanka, a 1300-year-old, five-line lyrical form of poetry from Japan, was originally called ‘waka’, which translates as ‘short song’. The Forest I Know, Kala Ramesh’s first book in this genre, consists mainly of tanka, tanka prose and tanka doha.

With stunningly bold and beautiful poems encompassing every facet of our day-to-day living, this book is at once ancient and modern, enduring and unforgettable – and is sure to resonate with the reader.

Genres: Poetry

166 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2021

Reviews

[Ankita Chauhan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5/5
Read full review on blog: https://ankitachauhan.substack.com/p/...

The Forest I know by Kala Ramesh, is a stunning collection of poetry centered around nature and human behavior. It reflects on quietness and beauty of being alive. These short poems are so comforting and impactful, mostly based on universal sentiments.



While reading these tanka pieces, I tried to absorb every word relates to my core. Somewhere, I found connectedness to village home and my childhood as well. I felt her work as fresh breath, each fragment shaped by understanding of people and life.



a visit
to our childhood home
I feel stripped
when those old trees
see me without my dreams


Her poems don’t follow any specific structural pattern, uses of free verses is more like music to ears, engaging and full of enigmatic observations. She has ability to evoke emotions and transform her reader into a world of senses. Her observant eye expresses the depth of her craft and artistry



today I think
of all my yesteryears
with you
and were you ever with me
at any time at all?


Basically, this book begins with a prose piece ─ A gaping whole ─ about a little girl and eventually we start discovering the portrait of a woman. It is a kind of journey that shines into self-discovery, acceptance and sustainable understanding.



Each passage feels like perceptive meditation on nature, human behavior and relationships. Certain poems have tied with bit melancholy and familiar sadness, ‘My heart weeps for the child I have never seen.’

I loved her poems, more than that liked the way she perceives her surrounding, her technique of adding layers to sharpen the imagery. As if we are floating in her poetic conscience.

[Rahul Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been in a pretty bad reading slump lately. I picked up this book because it seemed like a breeze from the looks of it. This book is a collection of Tanka verse; a 1300-year-old, five-line lyrical form of poetry from Japan. I read up a little on Tanka poetry before reading the book and I was quite moved by its history and cultural value that has surpassed the confines of Japan. In this book, the verses explore a range of themes from loneliness, alienation, love, hatred, to bodily changes with a focus on the woman's body and her identity. I read some of the verses aloud and enjoyed the lyrical flow of words from one page to another. The imagery infused in the verses made mundane events of our lives appear meaningful and a place where so many decisions and indecisions take place. I will keep this short and end the review here. I don't think I am an erudite on the topic of Tanka form of poetry, hence, too much (or any at all!) analysis would be unfair. I am thankful to the poet for introducing me to this new genre of poetry. Thanks to HarperCollins to for sending this copy for review.

[Priya · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a compilation of Tanka verses; a lyric poetry of Japan, 1300 years old.
The emotions woven into the verses made tedious happenings in our life seem important. The poetry explores a range of topics from solitude, alienation, love, hate, and physical transformation with an emphasis on the body and identity of women.

Some verses that I loved are:

"searching
the entire cupboard
for that shawl ...
feels like I've lost my mother
even before her death"


"silence
in the courtroom
our names
on the same page
for the last time"


"I turn a corner
and here I am
face to face
with what I thought
I'd left firmly behind"

[Hiren Vasoliya · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's out of the syllabus for me.

[Pretty Little Bibliophile · Rating 4 out of 5]

The last book I read in July was this beautifully sublime poetry collection. Kala Ramesh’s work is a stunning exploration of tanka literature. From tanka poems, and tanka prose to tanka doha, the poet's work is an all-encompassing and an ethereal take on the ancient Japanese poetry form.

(Swipe to read a couple pieces from the collection)
The most profound feeling that struck me as I read it was the way the poet transforms the everyday and the ordinary into an extraordinary ritual. It made me live those moments, and feel my soul get replenished in the wholeness.

How do I make it sound better than that? How do I properly write words that do justice to the way this collection made me feel?

Within all the epiphanies, the poet’s expert shines through and I was in awe of the way these pieces touched me and made me relate. Even within the complexity, there was such harmony to these words as well as in the possible multiple existences of the range of emotions and themes that abound this collection.

Here is one that left an impression on me:

🌻
I am
what I make of dreams
a dewdrop
holds the moon

I am also going to share two more snippets:

🌻
You asked
I gave willingly…
now, each time
I look back
all i see is my giving

🌻
Today i think
of all my yesteryears
with you
but were you ever with me
at any time at all?

This collection is going to stay with me for a long time. Thank you once again to @harpercollinsin for sending me this book!

[Kavya Janani U. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a gem. I repeat, this book is a gem. I am so happy I got to read this as the first read of 2022. Even if you don't know the nuances of tanka poetry, you can connect with these poems. Kala Ramesh (or Kala Ji as I address her) is an incredible poet. Every verse written by her cuts through you.

Kala Ji is a well-known name in the Japanese micro-poetry community. She is the founder of Triveni Haikai India in which I am a contributor. I have already read some of her phenomenal haiku and haibun in many journals. No wonder this book resonated with me. I wish I had read this on Kindle so that I could have posted my highlights for you all to read some of these amazing poems. I am posting a few here:

regaining
the joy in each step
thirty-two years
trail behind her walk
to freedom

silence
in the courtroom
our names
on the same page
for the last time

a visit
to our childhood home
I feel stripped
when those old trees
see me without my dreams

village women
carrying water
from far off places...
the city man lounges
for an hour in his bathtub

bleeding
in the darkness
of the womb
my heart weeps for the child
I've never seen

I'd highly recommend the forest I know to all aspiring and established poets.

[Ruchi Patel · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a gathering of tanka verses. It’s a unique genre of poetries that I will explain. Tanka is a 1300 years old five line lyrical form of poetry from Japan, was originally called “waka” which means short songs. It’s a short read that can be read in an hour or so hence I will only mention highlighted points. It’s divided into sections such as Maya, backyard well, pellets of desire, within and without, tanka doha and oneness. All the poetries are based on same genre so author has followed the rules perfectly. Author has chosen impactful and beautiful word carefully. Author had limited words and lines and still she has written impactful verses, so hats off to that. I liked paragraphs included. “Yoga” and “This woman thing” are quite impactful and different writing. I enjoyed reading it a lot. Quite deep yet intelligent writing style. Here I would like to share few lines that will give you little bit idea about the book.

“On the verge
Of recalling childhood
I dip into sleep
Trying to make a straight line
Curve into circle.”

“Searching for
Something she never had
Midnight rain…”

[Aditi Debnath · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Withered branches
stirring colors
within me,
the present becomes my past
running into my future.” — Kala Ramesh.

Beautiful, soothing and complex at times- 'The Forest I Know', takes you to a different level of journey towards the poetic world.

This book comprises mesmerizing collection of tanka passages and doha. It mostly discovers about life and its vivid stages. It talks of the feminine aura, the beauty of nature and details portraying our life.

Being an absolute poetry sucker, I am just in love with the author's way of expressing the thoughts, in an ever pleasing and lyrical manner.

[Tarun Sen · Rating 5 out of 5]

#📚 Book Review: *The Forest I Know*

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#Part 1: Book Details & Summary

#Book Details:
- Title: The Forest I Know
- Author: Kala Ramesh
- Genre: Poetry (Tanka Verse)
- Target Audience: Adults, Poetry Enthusiasts
- Publisher: HarperCollins

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#Setting:
- Where and when is the story set? The book doesn’t follow a narrative with a specific setting; instead, it creates vivid landscapes of emotions and life experiences.
- Is the setting fictional or real? A mix of both – rooted in reality but painted with imagination and metaphors.
- Does the setting change throughout the book? Yes, the poetry moves through themes of nature, relationships, solitude, and self-discovery.
- How well does the author describe the setting? Kala Ramesh masterfully transforms mundane scenarios into immersive moments, creating a poetic environment that lingers.

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#Main Characters:
While the book is poetry, the central "characters" are the narrator's emotions, reflections, and the people, places, and experiences she writes about. Key elements include:
- The Narrator: A voice that journeys through themes of identity, nostalgia, and human behavior.
- Other "Characters":
- Nature, as a living entity.
- Relationships, often explored through the lens of vulnerability and strength.
- Cultural references, such as traditions and art forms, adding depth to the poems.

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#Plot and Problem Area:
- What is the main plot of the book? A lyrical exploration of life, relationships, and human experiences through tanka poetry.
- What challenges or conflicts do the characters face? The poems delve into themes of solitude, love, loss, identity, and self-discovery.
- How does the story progress? The collection is divided into sections, each weaving different yet interconnected themes, offering a meditative progression.
- Are there any major twists or surprises? While the format doesn’t allow for conventional twists, many verses have thought-provoking revelations.
- How is the problem resolved? Through poetic epiphanies, the narrator finds harmony in the contradictions of life.

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#Part 2: Reader’s Opinion

#Strengths/Things I Liked Most:
- Captivating Verses: The tanka poems are simple yet profound, transforming everyday experiences into moments of reflection.
- Imagery: Kala Ramesh’s use of nature as a metaphor adds layers of depth to her work.
- Themes: The exploration of identity, relationships, and cultural nuances resonates universally.
- Writing Style: A seamless blend of tradition (tanka structure) and contemporary expression makes this collection accessible and engaging.
- Memorable Quotes:
- "At twilight, the forest I know by sight becomes a forest of sound, cicada summer."*
- "Bleeding in the darkness of the womb, my heart weeps for the child I've never seen."

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#Weaknesses/Things I Didn’t Like:
- Limited Accessibility: Readers unfamiliar with tanka poetry might need some background to fully appreciate its nuances.
- Repetitive Themes: Some verses touch on similar emotions, which could feel redundant to certain readers.

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#Message/Theme:
- Core Message: The collection encourages readers to find beauty and meaning in life’s simplicity and complexity.
- Moral or Lesson: Embrace the present, reflect on the past, and find harmony within.
- Relevance: Timeless themes like identity, love, and human connections make the book universally relatable.

---

#Author’s Writing Style:
- Tone and Mood: Reflective, poignant, and meditative.
- Language: Simple yet lyrical, with rich imagery.
- Dialogue: Not applicable, but the introspective verses feel conversational.
- Literary Devices: Skillful use of metaphors, symbolism, and contrasts (e.g., stillness vs. movement, joy vs. melancholy).

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#Part 3: Conclusion

#Your Opinion with Reasons:
Kala Ramesh's *The Forest I Know* left a deep impression on me. It’s not just a poetry collection but a journey through emotions and self-awareness. The interplay between cultural heritage and personal reflection makes it unique.

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#Final Verdict:
- Recommendation: Highly recommended for poetry lovers, especially those intrigued by Japanese lyrical forms like tanka. Aspiring poets and fans of reflective writing will also find this book inspiring.
- Cultural/Educational Significance: Introduces readers to the art of tanka while exploring universal human experiences.
- Emotions Felt:Nostalgia, peace, and an enriched appreciation for life’s small moments.

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#Rating of the Book:
⭐ 4.5/5
- Plot/Theme: 4.5/5
- Characters/Emotions: 5/5
- Writing Style: 4.5/5

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#Bonus Elements:

#Memorable Quotes from the Book:
- "Regaining the joy in each step, thirty-two years trail behind her walk to freedom."
- "For eons, waves have danced the pebbles to perfection, but it’s the sand through my fingers that leaves me spellbound."

#Cover Analysis:
The cover’s elegance mirrors the book’s theme—minimalistic yet profound. The forest imagery resonates with the collection’s connection to nature.

#Emotional Impact:
Reading this book felt like a quiet walk in the woods—calming yet introspective, leaving a lasting sense of serenity and thoughtfulness.

#Comparison with Other Books:
Comparable to Mary Oliver’s nature poetry and Rupi Kaur’s reflective verses but with a distinct cultural flavor rooted in Japanese tanka traditions.

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This review reflects the beauty and depth of *The Forest I Know*, a poetry collection that lingers in the reader's heart long after the last verse.

[Raina Srivastava · Rating 5 out of 5]

beautiful read. her prose and little poems tanka is very lyrical. with every page you experience what the writer has experienced.

The Forest I Know seems like the forest that has grown within me over the years.

[Nirantar]

Wonderful one

[Pradnya · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a tanka collection, the Japanese five line poems and some short proses like haibun. When I bought it at JLF I wasn't aware what's inside but the little book looked good and I felt like reading it.

I loved few of them. Haiku and haibun are my fav forms and tanka was new. Crossing through the multiple themes of a childhood, women's life, ageing, motherhood and nostalgia, this book is a reflection on the colorful life. Adding some I liked.

You asked
I gave willingly
Now, each time
I look back
All I see is my giving

A woman to woman talk
exposing all...
I hold back the one thing that hurts me most

Laughing over old stories...
Suddenly I feel that mother is young again

You trample on my feelings
Each time I return a little less unsure of myself



Daydreaming once again, mother scoffs...
I cradle my pillow, the sky spilling
through all four windows

If only she knew how to stay in love
without losing herself...
Jasmine scent in the air

[Ritaban Biswas · Rating 5 out of 5]

at twilight
the forest I know
by sight
becomes a forest of sound...
cicada summer

It was my first time reading prose and poetry in tanka, and what a wonderful experience it was. The way each piece illustrates how transient (and precious) life is and how unexpected events can happen to you is incredible. In addition to this predominant theme (of life being transient), there are pieces which portray the banality of daily existence. Ramesh occasionally makes amazing juxtapositions between two separate occurrences, as demonstrated in her works A Turtle's Dance, Bitterness, Blood Stains, and the like.

I'm glad that I bought it out of whim, because I was enticed by the cover, as well as eager to explore tanka. Poetry-stans are going to thrive on this book, it's that good!

[Bhawana Somaaya · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a book which is a collection of tanka verses. Tanka is a 1300-year-old Japanese tradition of writing short poems- 5 lines each. Originally it was called Waka and when translated it means ‘short songs’. This is my first exposure to tanka and it is also author Kala Ramesh’s first book of tanka verses. She combines tanka verses, tanka prose and also dohas and comments on life, emotions, anguish, apprehensions everyday anguish.

It looks very easy when you read it but it’s very deep, reflective and meditative. What is wonderful is the way this book is produced. The paper and the quality of the printing is too good. Its very easy on the eye. So, if you are a lover of poetry and would like to get exposed to tanka poetry, please go for it.

[GEETASHREE CHATTERJEE · Rating 5 out of 5]

the forest i know is a self introspective collection of tanka, tanka prose (in line with haibun), tanka doha (couplet) and tanka sutra (stringlet) by world renowned haiku poet, Kala Ramesh. Haiku, as I have said before, is a way of living and looking at life through a prism of decluttered mindscape wherein the crux is the contrast that life presents at every bend. Haiku does not, as a rule, allow indulgence in emotions but tanka does. As the poet weaves a path through a 'pathless' journey through the forest of life in search of empowerment, equanimity and enlightenment her poems become variant threads of emotive expressions, passive reflections, experiential analogy and critical evaluation of self. Somewhere in the process of finding herself she heals and helps heal her readers.

[Xenia Tran · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forest I Know - a gathering of tanka verses, is a beautiful and moving collection of tanka, tanka prose, tanka doha, tanka sutra and, curiously, it also includes ten haibun. I personally feel the collection would have been stronger if it had kept its focus on tanka and left the haibun for another book. When it comes to the tanka, Kala's voice shines through and matures as she takes us from childhood to womanhood, marriage, motherhood, divorce, caring for ageing parents, becoming a grandmother and at the core of all this finding herself and finding peace, creativity and spirituality as her journey through life continues. It is a book to treasure and read again at your leisure.

[Chaitanya · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am a believer of the fact that a book should come in one’s life at the right time when it makes sense and adds value.
I’m not sure if it’s the book I didn’t like or the book dawned early on me.

What I did like about the book was it’s serenity. It was serene and with every turning page whether or not it made sense to me made me feel pleasant. There also were a couple of verses I really liked but other than that I’m not sure if I’d recommend it to anyone.

[Nazarin · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝑨𝒕 𝒕𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕
𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘
𝒃𝒚 𝒔𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕
𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒂 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅
𝒄𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒅𝒂 𝒔𝒖𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒓

The Forest I know is a collection of eloquent, exquisite verses written in the traditional form of tanka by Kala Ramesh. Tanka is a five line, 31 syllable poem that has been the basic form of Japanese poetry or waka and it translates as 'short song'. Consisting mainly of tanka, tanka prose and tanka doha, this poetry collection is highly original in expressing a spectrum of themes including identity, betrayal, abandonment and non-being with profound subtlety.

The simplicity of the verses has a salient role in creating a feeling of deep familiarity towards the form as well as the themes. They seem stimulating and realistic rather than soft or idealized. Kala Ramesh's sensual use of imageries of nature in depicting the simple pleasures, as well as the blend of traditional structure and the modern, conversational language provides an unforgettable reading experience.

[Anirudh Acharya · Rating 1 out of 5]

horrible.

"enough to press the image
on my mind's ipod" ?

amateurish, repetitive, traitorous to what good tanka is.

surprised this was even published.