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October 30, 2007
October 28, 2007
Yesterday
I took a plunge, knowing nothing of where I would land up. Felt exciting, felt scary, and most of all felt sad. For the plunge was with a friend's emotion. Didn't know how she would react, didn't feel right, but didn't have any other choice- no chioce left by one's own stupid heart. Found reason to believe I was right. I still believe so, but the mess up don't begin there. tey begin lifetimes back, but who is to listen, and who is to amend. the beginning of wars starts from the single word. the end of relationships- friendships all, from the single word. wish one could take back a single word, and like so a thousand- words, deeds, a million thoughts. maybe someday things will work out. i believe they always do. then again i believe a lot of things. besides my faith wht is there to vouch for any of them.
Intoxication
A willingful deceit,
Smoking bullets of trained passion
From the hands of known fiends
Smiling tears
Poured in pegs
By one and no less
Tormented soul
Freedom unjustified by the incessant noise
In my ear when I'm drunk
I'm intoxicated with you
With me
With life in general
Wake me up
From this unreasonable stupor
Is this me?
Smoking bullets of trained passion
From the hands of known fiends
Smiling tears
Poured in pegs
By one and no less
Tormented soul
Freedom unjustified by the incessant noise
In my ear when I'm drunk
I'm intoxicated with you
With me
With life in general
Wake me up
From this unreasonable stupor
Is this me?
October 26, 2007
King for a day
Cant make the day any better
Cant think of easier paths
Smiles pass me by on the desolate highway
Today is the day I come to life..
Emerge!
Dissolve out of the dark blue
Of endless oceans of my mind
Rise above the inequities
That dot this prized universe
Free me from me and you
Freedom for solitude
Heavy price, some might say
Have you been king for a day?
Yesterday is always good
Life is simpler
You were true
Love was pure
Untainted hearts
Treasured, cherished
And warm all around
Experiments in time bending
Fast-slow, easy acceptance
Wish today was any different
Oh yes, today is.
They rule the solid mind
They seem to think divine
They have their reasons fair
I've got this to declare
A king is not questionable
A king is beyond reason
The rule under the watchful eye
Of the sovereign, parent and teacher
Treasure these days beyond measure
Experience does not come cheap
Is that blood,
Is that ink?
Doesn't matter,
It looks good
Scarlet ribbons across the ocean floor
A sign of my grandeur
A lost treasure
Sought for centuries, I'm sure
Today I am King for a day.
Palash Mitra
Oct 26, 2007
Cant think of easier paths
Smiles pass me by on the desolate highway
Today is the day I come to life..
Emerge!
Dissolve out of the dark blue
Of endless oceans of my mind
Rise above the inequities
That dot this prized universe
Free me from me and you
Freedom for solitude
Heavy price, some might say
Have you been king for a day?
Yesterday is always good
Life is simpler
You were true
Love was pure
Untainted hearts
Treasured, cherished
And warm all around
Experiments in time bending
Fast-slow, easy acceptance
Wish today was any different
Oh yes, today is.
They rule the solid mind
They seem to think divine
They have their reasons fair
I've got this to declare
A king is not questionable
A king is beyond reason
The rule under the watchful eye
Of the sovereign, parent and teacher
Treasure these days beyond measure
Experience does not come cheap
Is that blood,
Is that ink?
Doesn't matter,
It looks good
Scarlet ribbons across the ocean floor
A sign of my grandeur
A lost treasure
Sought for centuries, I'm sure
Today I am King for a day.
Palash Mitra
Oct 26, 2007
October 15, 2007
Exciting times!!
Last two weeks - hectic, crazy, strict, freedom of choice, run down by past defects, reason to belive that there is purpose, reason to defy/challenge/fail to decipher that purpose, failing health, mostly my relationship with my stomach is strained (y'know how it is... stomachs these days), non-communicative, mistake on my part, losing vital documents, mistake on my part, feeling joyful, yet sad, typical, need vacation, won't be getting one anytime soon, Delhi fabulous trip- learning, realisation, at times pain at not-so-welcome information, let down, uplifted, insiteful- human nature is freaky, but pleasant in varied circumstances, life force is the whole deal, commitment is the basic matter, you are your best judge, others your best witness, your best parameter, strictness- a means, not an end, leadership- a responsibility, a reality, not a tag, a badge or a sign or greater capability; art- a wonder, till unleashed upon the world, then only a consumer item, also dressing sense, i confirm that i have none whatsoever, Bourne Ultimatum- good film; series of trips and meetings- quoting my favourite person, myself- tiring but sattisfying- rather not just satisfying, but highly necessary for the fulfillment of one's desires- for one's happiness, others' and more of us, and them.
Finally the question that remains on our minds- burning as I speak of the days past and those to come- the question of not what is to come, not what has been the outcome, not the reason I drink too uch coffee, or the reason I quit smoking in 2004, the Question that is to be asked, maybe answered, maybe I won't- but then
Am I Excited?
About the days ahead
About the life stretching in front of me for all eternity
About the dreams I dreamt in the warmth of cocoa
About the hoarseness after I add sound to some words, others 'sing'
About what I am about to accomplish, however mighty or maybe small
About Revolution[s]
[A]: yeah, yes, Yes, YEs, YES, YESS!!!
Finally the question that remains on our minds- burning as I speak of the days past and those to come- the question of not what is to come, not what has been the outcome, not the reason I drink too uch coffee, or the reason I quit smoking in 2004, the Question that is to be asked, maybe answered, maybe I won't- but then
Am I Excited?
About the days ahead
About the life stretching in front of me for all eternity
About the dreams I dreamt in the warmth of cocoa
About the hoarseness after I add sound to some words, others 'sing'
About what I am about to accomplish, however mighty or maybe small
About Revolution[s]
[A]: yeah, yes, Yes, YEs, YES, YESS!!!
October 14, 2007
Its damn exciting!!!
Another draft from Sept-Oct 07... I know am just to lazy to type new posts....
The exhibition (Written Image, solo exhibition by Hiran Mitra, at Japan Chitra Gallery at Part Street, Kolkata- 3rd to 17th of October 2007) has been a moderate success as of now. The books printed at rocket speed, have been sold off likewise. The response to the show has been quite good, though sales are not yet up to the mark. We hope to strike better next time. this was of course the first exhibit put up after the Foundation set up base in Kolkata, so its all learning (when is it not!).
Delhi Training Course- went off to Delhi, in the midst of exhibition opening, on the 30th of November, to return on the 4th morning. We were 14 of us, 12 students from diverse backgrounds, and from all parts of the city, but with a shared purpose, a lofty goal, and great deal of fun thrown in! It was a tremendous experience for me, as this is my 6th trip to SBTG, Gurgaon, on behalf of BSG, but every trip has been a fresh and joyful experience. This time especially as we got to interact with some senior members during our stay with them. Life
seems so different, so much more exciting once you have been to the Soka Bodhi Tree Garden! It makes one aware of the great family we are part of! The All India Student Division Meeting was held on the 2nd of October, what an auspicious day! A gathering of 1200 bright, young faces, burning with a shared commitment to realise peace on this planet! Ah what a glorious occasion!
Of course, right after coming back, obstacles abound as expected, but its all part of the deal, isnt it. Cant feel nothing but joy, when faced by all these challenges- especially in career and family front!
Just about fit in a day trip to Pune, as work piles up and Durga Pujo approaches.. Of course I would like to mention that this year's celebation is quite special, but that's for another time!
September 25, 2007
Work
Just a post I had forgotten to post...
Its been a busy day.. and night! Have been working since day before -straight- no sleep! The only break was a half hour time-out -that too just went out to get some supplies for the regiment- after all the soldiers need food and water, y'know.. of course there was enuf water!! The whole city seemed to be under water... or at least just about floating! But really its such a gratifying feeling when there's a job well done.. of course there are crisis moments- esp the few min before a deadline.. but man the rush is exciting! Been working about 40 odd hours.. in the past 2 days.. of course there's tiredness, but there's also the envigorating feeling of having done something of worth! Bottomline I love to work- esp when I enjoy whatever work I do.. :D
'Running shoes'- a script I am workin on is coming fine.. once we go into production -say in a month or two- I'll publish the script. (Just a mention- I am a bad bad script-writer, but our writer is down with food-poisoning n I'm the only one positioned right to come up with something that we can work with... how unfortunate) Nyways I do hit those blanks when the only dialogue that comes to my mind is "Hi, y'knw, this is some interestin shit!"... Believe that's my favourite line.. got Labyrinth to vouch for that..
(For those who have not been baptised to Palashology 'The Labyrinth' is my/our first film o any worth). So comin to the basic point.. 'Running Shoes' is comin fine by my standards.. have finished 8 pages of script in this last 2 weeks (lolz .. any script-writer knows that attests to my suckiness as such!!) Also a second script is on its way.. this is for a documentary-- rather a biopic of sorts.. details for later(undercover ops u see).. And work for the firm. The firm's also building well. the momentum's great. Just takes some time to getting used to.. Hope whoever takes over after I'm done can handle the pressure. Nyways all bout it later... Right now.. I think I forgot lunch. Wonder y I'm feelin so hungry!! ;D
'Running shoes'- a script I am workin on is coming fine.. once we go into production -say in a month or two- I'll publish the script. (Just a mention- I am a bad bad script-writer, but our writer is down with food-poisoning n I'm the only one positioned right to come up with something that we can work with... how unfortunate) Nyways I do hit those blanks when the only dialogue that comes to my mind is "Hi, y'knw, this is some interestin shit!"... Believe that's my favourite line.. got Labyrinth to vouch for that..
(For those who have not been baptised to Palashology 'The Labyrinth' is my/our first film o any worth). So comin to the basic point.. 'Running Shoes' is comin fine by my standards.. have finished 8 pages of script in this last 2 weeks (lolz .. any script-writer knows that attests to my suckiness as such!!) Also a second script is on its way.. this is for a documentary-- rather a biopic of sorts.. details for later(undercover ops u see).. And work for the firm. The firm's also building well. the momentum's great. Just takes some time to getting used to.. Hope whoever takes over after I'm done can handle the pressure. Nyways all bout it later... Right now.. I think I forgot lunch. Wonder y I'm feelin so hungry!! ;D
N.B.- I did have lunch later. Running Shoes is still in development phase. This post was written about a year back. The 'regiment' is currently on break from duty, on account of lack of funds. The firm(Art Borderline India) is actually doing ok now, with fresh recruits. My script-writing skills still suck. I actually got to about 15-18pages of script over the next 4 months since writing the above post.
September 24, 2007
I can see clearly now...
I can see clearly now, the rain is gone,
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It's gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day
It's gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day
Oh yes I can make it now, the pain is gone
All of the bad feelings have disappeared
Here is the rainbow I've been prayin' for
It's gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day
Look all around, there's nothin' but blue skies
Look straight ahead, nothin' but blue skies
The only thing is I don't see blue skies. For one its raining heavily for the past 3 days. Past few days have been as usual hectic, with the company setting up, and 'Running shoes' developing not so smoothly, its been a roller-coaster ride (as expected, of course). In the middle of it, we had 2 wonderful meetings on Sunday. The sheer joy and the passion of our mothers and aunts' in putting together such an occasion is admirable and tremendously inspiring to say the least! The rain was hardly a deterrent and so many women turned up, braving the storm and the water-clogging shows how, when you have the spirit to challenge and the spirit to seek happiness, nothing can be anobstacle. Happiness resides within each one of us and its an amazing sensation! The women's division members of our organisation (a global NGO) really proved that they are living for a true cause- a mission to change the world through their own lives. I just hope some of the youth of today take a page out of this.
So of course, I gave duty at the meetings- very fortunate on my part. Though the evening meeting was also bit embarrasing to say the least- my dear mother started speaking about me and how I was this n that n all that before, and how through her own life-transformation she hsa brought about such a change not only in me, but in the whole family order... Anyways it was fun too. :D
But work work n work... The rains have pretty much brought all my work to a standstill. Rabin, the guy who works in my office is brave- he came all the way from way out of town, in spite of the raging storm. Will have to appreciate that sometime. However, the printing is not working out- cos of the rains the print isn't drying as fast as it should and with the exhibition approaching, ts imperaive that the invitations are sent out asap - today would have been a good day to do that. The pace at which the office is being fixed is also frustrating. The plumbing guys need to work outside and cos of the rains they
can't of course. Let's see.. right now the entire plumbing- bit of the electrical stuff, the paint, and the carpentry is left. After which the office will be all set for proper business. Its good learning for me - as I plan on setting up my own company very soon.. Aah my dream project.
Anyways the rains are being a damper.
I generally am a fan of the rains. It makes me feel fresh - almost as if the sins of Man are washed away- a new lease of life given with every drop- a new sound created by every surface the rain touches, a new reason to smile, a new sensation amidst the old familiarity of love-worn faces. I can see clearly now with the rain falling on me.... The obstacles will always be there... The dark clouds seem brighter today.
Oh yes I can make it now, the pain is gone
All of the bad feelings have disappeared...
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It's gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day
It's gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day
Oh yes I can make it now, the pain is gone
All of the bad feelings have disappeared
Here is the rainbow I've been prayin' for
It's gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day
Look all around, there's nothin' but blue skies
Look straight ahead, nothin' but blue skies
The only thing is I don't see blue skies. For one its raining heavily for the past 3 days. Past few days have been as usual hectic, with the company setting up, and 'Running shoes' developing not so smoothly, its been a roller-coaster ride (as expected, of course). In the middle of it, we had 2 wonderful meetings on Sunday. The sheer joy and the passion of our mothers and aunts' in putting together such an occasion is admirable and tremendously inspiring to say the least! The rain was hardly a deterrent and so many women turned up, braving the storm and the water-clogging shows how, when you have the spirit to challenge and the spirit to seek happiness, nothing can be anobstacle. Happiness resides within each one of us and its an amazing sensation! The women's division members of our organisation (a global NGO) really proved that they are living for a true cause- a mission to change the world through their own lives. I just hope some of the youth of today take a page out of this.
So of course, I gave duty at the meetings- very fortunate on my part. Though the evening meeting was also bit embarrasing to say the least- my dear mother started speaking about me and how I was this n that n all that before, and how through her own life-transformation she hsa brought about such a change not only in me, but in the whole family order... Anyways it was fun too. :D
But work work n work... The rains have pretty much brought all my work to a standstill. Rabin, the guy who works in my office is brave- he came all the way from way out of town, in spite of the raging storm. Will have to appreciate that sometime. However, the printing is not working out- cos of the rains the print isn't drying as fast as it should and with the exhibition approaching, ts imperaive that the invitations are sent out asap - today would have been a good day to do that. The pace at which the office is being fixed is also frustrating. The plumbing guys need to work outside and cos of the rains they
can't of course. Let's see.. right now the entire plumbing- bit of the electrical stuff, the paint, and the carpentry is left. After which the office will be all set for proper business. Its good learning for me - as I plan on setting up my own company very soon.. Aah my dream project.
Anyways the rains are being a damper.
I generally am a fan of the rains. It makes me feel fresh - almost as if the sins of Man are washed away- a new lease of life given with every drop- a new sound created by every surface the rain touches, a new reason to smile, a new sensation amidst the old familiarity of love-worn faces. I can see clearly now with the rain falling on me.... The obstacles will always be there... The dark clouds seem brighter today.
Oh yes I can make it now, the pain is gone
All of the bad feelings have disappeared...
September 22, 2007
Nice day to you...
Good mornin... bonjour...bonjornio... hola
How are we feeling today? Aah a new day.. the sun tips past the horizon.. racing with its own light. How wonderful it feels to wake up to a new day! However today I am alien to that feeling. Not for the fact that its not a nice day. But I haven't waken up- One needs to sleep to wake up. I know health is wealth- that's why I'm struggling with my finances. Heh Work pressure's real nice n sweet. She's kept me up for more than a week now. Got to flirt with Slumber just once about 3-4 days back... Man, I miss my bed. :( But work is work, and no compromise there. Just have to figure out a way to balance them. Prayer is the key. Open up your life and do more! Have to win in all spheres... Tough challnges ahead. But its fun!
Now I have to go get some veggies and meat from the market... Dad's outta town, n I love the smell of the market... wish I had time to do this on a regular basis. But its cool. As much as one can do- and try to make it count, right? Anyways enough of it. Its just plain shopping, man.. Ebar jai, else I won't get the fresh veggies n Maya mashi (our house-keeper) won't have time to cook.. N I won't get to eat at home.. And I dn like that...
How are we feeling today? Aah a new day.. the sun tips past the horizon.. racing with its own light. How wonderful it feels to wake up to a new day! However today I am alien to that feeling. Not for the fact that its not a nice day. But I haven't waken up- One needs to sleep to wake up. I know health is wealth- that's why I'm struggling with my finances. Heh Work pressure's real nice n sweet. She's kept me up for more than a week now. Got to flirt with Slumber just once about 3-4 days back... Man, I miss my bed. :( But work is work, and no compromise there. Just have to figure out a way to balance them. Prayer is the key. Open up your life and do more! Have to win in all spheres... Tough challnges ahead. But its fun!
Now I have to go get some veggies and meat from the market... Dad's outta town, n I love the smell of the market... wish I had time to do this on a regular basis. But its cool. As much as one can do- and try to make it count, right? Anyways enough of it. Its just plain shopping, man.. Ebar jai, else I won't get the fresh veggies n Maya mashi (our house-keeper) won't have time to cook.. N I won't get to eat at home.. And I dn like that...
A mistake...
Hope life's been good to you since you've been gone
I'm doing fine, I finally moved on
Its not so bad, Im not that sad
I'm just surprised how well I survived
And it only hurts when I'm breathing
My dreams only die when I'm dreaming
My heart only breaks when its beating
So I hold my breath to forget
Don't think I'm lying around crying at night
C'mon, destiny is what you make of it, right?
Remember that I've always loved you
And nothing can change that...
I'm doing fine, I finally moved on
Its not so bad, Im not that sad
I'm just surprised how well I survived
And it only hurts when I'm breathing
My dreams only die when I'm dreaming
My heart only breaks when its beating
So I hold my breath to forget
Don't think I'm lying around crying at night
C'mon, destiny is what you make of it, right?
Remember that I've always loved you
And nothing can change that...
[Written by a lost friend of mine- Dareen
Hope she is doing fine.
My prayers for you.]
Paradox II
The buildings stare at me
With those unblinking eyes
The sun is shy, today
The mood is not right
A deafenind roar,
Unending,
The sound of my heartbeat
Like a psychedelic drum
Played through the night
It reminds me always
Of the pain in joy
Looking for some reason
Where there ain't none.
2004
With those unblinking eyes
The sun is shy, today
The mood is not right
A deafenind roar,
Unending,
The sound of my heartbeat
Like a psychedelic drum
Played through the night
It reminds me always
Of the pain in joy
Looking for some reason
Where there ain't none.
2004
Paradox
Eternity is a paradox of the soul, or are we just too many words, that will mean something, someday. Will my faith be questioned, the day I fly? Never will you find the reason, for which we die.
Diaries and memories... VIII
?Am I there yet.
Drive off into the distance on the right
The line of destiny blurred
Going over the edge of time
To theworld just next door
If you look true
If you look hard
At the edge of a star, at the lake's skin
And find me
Remind me of the day I cried
Of salt and dust
Shivers in my spine
I know someday I'll be rising.
Fire in the very air
Burning the passion inside, hot coals
Coals of doubt eats me up
The pain of knowing what's goin on
Don't add fuel
let me find my way
Step by step
Outta this maze
The cruel mockery of my mid
The Man within
Withiut me, I'm nowhere
Without I, I can never die
Knowing me inside out
Leave the outside blurred
Ride with me into the distance of the night
Maybe someday you'll meet me, Reason.
2003, Palash Mitra
Drive off into the distance on the right
The line of destiny blurred
Going over the edge of time
To theworld just next door
If you look true
If you look hard
At the edge of a star, at the lake's skin
And find me
Remind me of the day I cried
Of salt and dust
Shivers in my spine
I know someday I'll be rising.
Fire in the very air
Burning the passion inside, hot coals
Coals of doubt eats me up
The pain of knowing what's goin on
Don't add fuel
let me find my way
Step by step
Outta this maze
The cruel mockery of my mid
The Man within
Withiut me, I'm nowhere
Without I, I can never die
Knowing me inside out
Leave the outside blurred
Ride with me into the distance of the night
Maybe someday you'll meet me, Reason.
2003, Palash Mitra
Moon II
The wind whistles at me
As I search for the sun
Night beckons - alluring
The promise of a full moon
Shining just right
Want reasons for my questions
Answers eluding my every moove
Motion is a deception of thought
A promise of elusive content.
My ship sails high
On the horizon of my mind
My thoughts- moving in tandem
The wind of despair blow through
Pushes my ship into action
The sad times - the bad times
Life - energy - me
Alive. Free
2003. Palash Mitra
As I search for the sun
Night beckons - alluring
The promise of a full moon
Shining just right
Want reasons for my questions
Answers eluding my every moove
Motion is a deception of thought
A promise of elusive content.
My ship sails high
On the horizon of my mind
My thoughts- moving in tandem
The wind of despair blow through
Pushes my ship into action
The sad times - the bad times
Life - energy - me
Alive. Free
2003. Palash Mitra
Diaries and memories... VII
...Scared...
Would I go the distance?
A speck in the purple sky
Horizons blurred in my mind
Ye ask me nw
Would I lie - today?
Can I cry, ye say
Rivers run too deep in my soul
No tears in my eyes
Rocks hold 'em back
Too huge for anyone
Even you
Even me.
I see no end, no fear
The abyss of Love, scared
Can't get up from the mess
Dying hands hold me back
Sold my soul twice, thrice
Dould my soul again tonite.
The devil smiles at me
He watches, he knows
Would he lie to me
He does s for a living
Gives false hopes
I ain't trapped yet
Why, oh why did I live to die?
I smile today, laugh too
Laugh my heart out
My heart bleeds,
Have reached the horizon
The edge under my feat
Both ways pulling, scared
Hold me please, I'm scared.
OKAY types... 2003, Palash Mitra
Would I go the distance?
A speck in the purple sky
Horizons blurred in my mind
Ye ask me nw
Would I lie - today?
Can I cry, ye say
Rivers run too deep in my soul
No tears in my eyes
Rocks hold 'em back
Too huge for anyone
Even you
Even me.
I see no end, no fear
The abyss of Love, scared
Can't get up from the mess
Dying hands hold me back
Sold my soul twice, thrice
Dould my soul again tonite.
The devil smiles at me
He watches, he knows
Would he lie to me
He does s for a living
Gives false hopes
I ain't trapped yet
Why, oh why did I live to die?
I smile today, laugh too
Laugh my heart out
My heart bleeds,
Have reached the horizon
The edge under my feat
Both ways pulling, scared
Hold me please, I'm scared.
OKAY types... 2003, Palash Mitra
Diaries and memories... VI
I lost a very dear friend- family ... some years back. Though she wasn't someone I had any romantic feelings for.. nonetheless, she was quite dear. This is dedicated to her.
--Farewell--
Hey baby, this is a sad song
I'll sing for you
To the tune of the night
Let me just do this right
I need to forget
But I can't now
Hey baby, I know you feel sad
the memory lingers
From the day at the park
the first meeting, the touch
Till the day you left.
Give my regards to god.
I hope you are well
Nice and snug
Dreaming your best dreams
In your bed of roses
Your flight of fantasy
Fly high, my butterfly.
Christina, the sweetest
I hear your name in the night
The breeze mocking me
Calling to me to embrace it
Oh girl, how sad I feel
If only you knew how much
Just how much you meant to me
Its like the fading memory
Of that jingle I once loved,
Tink, tink, tinker, tinker
I still love that jingle
No matter what...
I hear you smiling
As I walk along
The flowery trails, sweet
Sweet ol' memory lane
I loved that smile
So genuine, so fresh
As if it embraced the Earth
And made all smile.
It made me smile
Oh dear, don't be sad
I'm still smiling
As I dream of us
Floating side by side
In the river of freedom
Farewell my dear
Don't be sad
Rest in peace, my eternal love.
2003, Palash Mitra
Hey baby, this is a sad song
I'll sing for you
To the tune of the night
Let me just do this right
I need to forget
But I can't now
Hey baby, I know you feel sad
the memory lingers
From the day at the park
the first meeting, the touch
Till the day you left.
Give my regards to god.
I hope you are well
Nice and snug
Dreaming your best dreams
In your bed of roses
Your flight of fantasy
Fly high, my butterfly.
Christina, the sweetest
I hear your name in the night
The breeze mocking me
Calling to me to embrace it
Oh girl, how sad I feel
If only you knew how much
Just how much you meant to me
Its like the fading memory
Of that jingle I once loved,
Tink, tink, tinker, tinker
I still love that jingle
No matter what...
I hear you smiling
As I walk along
The flowery trails, sweet
Sweet ol' memory lane
I loved that smile
So genuine, so fresh
As if it embraced the Earth
And made all smile.
It made me smile
Oh dear, don't be sad
I'm still smiling
As I dream of us
Floating side by side
In the river of freedom
Farewell my dear
Don't be sad
Rest in peace, my eternal love.
2003, Palash Mitra
Diaries and Memories V
..Dawn..
A purple haze, misty eyes
The dawn is breaking
In my life
the leaves are wet
Dew as sweet as wine
Let the radiance of the new day shine
Shine, as it has never before
Start the story all over again
The mucis had stopped
Yet begins again
More melodious and sweet as ever
This is a new song, old ones gone
Like the past events
SAd to say the least
the eagles fly high above, soaring up
Up and higher
Freedom never felt so great
Let me fly I just wanna touch the sky
Reach for the heavens
And you might find it
Deep within
The strength tp lead forth
To carry on, ever
The bigger picture had never been so clear
So much to do
And so much time
Oh jsut let me fly
And let me on my way now
2003, Palash Mitra
A.N.G.E.L.
***Your Angel***
The memory is painful
It haunts you
The ghosts of your past
You crouch, afraid
Crawl under the bed
Its dark in there.It'll never let go, never ever stop,
Haunting
Washed your face?
Did it help?
Can't was away the memories
tortures you in your dreamz
Won't leave you ever in light
Your ghosts reflected in the mirror
They'll just multiply
Feel like crying, don't you?
The man crossing the street
He waved at you, smiling
Couldn't he have passed by
But the truck stopped too late
The man lay asleep in his bed
His bed wet with red
Couldn't he have just passed by
Who was he?
Why did he wave?
He is a faceless man now - you'll never know
Never, ever.
the bullet whizzed past you
Inches from your face
You wonder what might have been
You turn and see
Another faceless man.
His hand raised- finger cold
Can't find him
He's lost in the crowd
Your angel of death.
The bus rattled up the bumpy road
Sheer cliffs fall down till eternity
Beyond sight and thought
you cling on for dear life
He slips but doesn't fall
The faceless man- looks you in the eye
Pleading to you - to save his life
Your life passes you by
As death stares you in the face.
So it seems,
You reach for him, but can't hold on
your fingers touch
But its too late
He wastes his life in his jump
Into eternity
His angel of death will save him
Doesn't he believe that?
Embrace him with open arms
Far below down those sheer cliffs
Your angel stands beside you.
Look behind. He smiles
When is your turn you wonder
You wonder whther one day
There'll be some last person you wave to
Someone to reach for
Someone to recognise
Before you take that fatal step
Or that jump into eternl space
You wonder whether one day
You'll be that faceless man
Haunting someone else's dreams
Turning them into nightmares
You wish it will never happen
You know the agony - know how it feels
Feeling cold?
A slight shiver,
Its your angel of death
Standing beside you, smiling.
Feel like cryin, don't you?
OKAY..... SOME CRAZY STUFF, MAN!!
AGAIN 2002 Palash Mitra
The memory is painful
It haunts you
The ghosts of your past
You crouch, afraid
Crawl under the bed
Its dark in there.It'll never let go, never ever stop,
Haunting
Washed your face?
Did it help?
Can't was away the memories
tortures you in your dreamz
Won't leave you ever in light
Your ghosts reflected in the mirror
They'll just multiply
Feel like crying, don't you?
The man crossing the street
He waved at you, smiling
Couldn't he have passed by
But the truck stopped too late
The man lay asleep in his bed
His bed wet with red
Couldn't he have just passed by
Who was he?
Why did he wave?
He is a faceless man now - you'll never know
Never, ever.
the bullet whizzed past you
Inches from your face
You wonder what might have been
You turn and see
Another faceless man.
His hand raised- finger cold
Can't find him
He's lost in the crowd
Your angel of death.
The bus rattled up the bumpy road
Sheer cliffs fall down till eternity
Beyond sight and thought
you cling on for dear life
He slips but doesn't fall
The faceless man- looks you in the eye
Pleading to you - to save his life
Your life passes you by
As death stares you in the face.
So it seems,
You reach for him, but can't hold on
your fingers touch
But its too late
He wastes his life in his jump
Into eternity
His angel of death will save him
Doesn't he believe that?
Embrace him with open arms
Far below down those sheer cliffs
Your angel stands beside you.
Look behind. He smiles
When is your turn you wonder
You wonder whther one day
There'll be some last person you wave to
Someone to reach for
Someone to recognise
Before you take that fatal step
Or that jump into eternl space
You wonder whether one day
You'll be that faceless man
Haunting someone else's dreams
Turning them into nightmares
You wish it will never happen
You know the agony - know how it feels
Feeling cold?
A slight shiver,
Its your angel of death
Standing beside you, smiling.
Feel like cryin, don't you?
OKAY..... SOME CRAZY STUFF, MAN!!
AGAIN 2002 Palash Mitra
Diaries and memories... IV
...**Candle-lit stars**...
In my dreams, I see the mist
That clogs my mind & our souls
We lose our selves and the path
The fog engulfing around us all
And try to reach for the far ones
Doubts & suspicions
Misunderstandings, all rooted out
From the depths of the fog
Throw some light my way
Throw some light my way
I need to know where I'm heading
Throw some light my way
thorw some light my way
I need to know if you need me
Throw some light my way
I need to know what you're feeling.
The clear fields seem like forests
Asumptions- we always make
Reality- a shadow in the dark
Truth seems to be a lie
And they overcome our lives
We grope in the dark, the forest
Searching for a hint of direction...
And then I see you
Throw some light my way
Throw some light my way
I need to know where I'm heading
Throw some light my way
thorw some light my way
I need to know if you need me
Throw some light my way
I need to know what you're feeling.
Throw some light my way, Yeah darling
And make my day.
2001, Palash Mitra
In my dreams, I see the mist
That clogs my mind & our souls
We lose our selves and the path
The fog engulfing around us all
And try to reach for the far ones
Doubts & suspicions
Misunderstandings, all rooted out
From the depths of the fog
Throw some light my way
Throw some light my way
I need to know where I'm heading
Throw some light my way
thorw some light my way
I need to know if you need me
Throw some light my way
I need to know what you're feeling.
The clear fields seem like forests
Asumptions- we always make
Reality- a shadow in the dark
Truth seems to be a lie
And they overcome our lives
We grope in the dark, the forest
Searching for a hint of direction...
And then I see you
Throw some light my way
Throw some light my way
I need to know where I'm heading
Throw some light my way
thorw some light my way
I need to know if you need me
Throw some light my way
I need to know what you're feeling.
Throw some light my way, Yeah darling
And make my day.
2001, Palash Mitra
Moon I
...**$ A White Dot $**...
The white dot in the black sky
Speaking of love, and timeless beauty
the moon in all its glory
Bathing in the moonlight
Cool summer breeze, caressing
The heart and soul of the lover
Making him sad, yet happy
Longing for his loved one
The desire to love and be loved
Burning within ever
Yet cooled by the wind
Her name whispered in his dreams
What be her name
The moon reflecting her face
The white dot in the dark sky.
The silver lining beyond the cloudless sky
Optimism, mysticism
The sky in gllom, grey & lifeless
Reflects the mood
The sun deep in thought
Even he needs rest
Sad, is losing its glow
Yet it shows, shining through
The cold and the snow
An image of your mind
Shines as the light falls
The light of day
The light of night
Doing away with the gloom
A warm spot amidst the cold
Passion burning still
Yet, what of the dark night
As it takes over the again
The lover finds solace and peace
A moment of his own
And yet never his
He gets to dream
The desire ever there
A little wishful, as if in a whisper
He wants to say,
'I love you, forever'
As if in the dream, he sees her
He wants to keep her
Captured in time
An epitome of timeless beauty
Like the moon he looks at
As if he wants to shout out a whisper
'I need you in my arms'
and all the words
The day, the light & passion
of all, forbids.
He wants her name
Ever glowing in his heart
To be written in stars
He does that
the stars speak of her
Winking, 'she can hear you'
she too sees the beauty of such
The wite dot on the dark sky.
2001, Palash Mitra
[Written for no one specific]
[:D crap]
The white dot in the black sky
Speaking of love, and timeless beauty
the moon in all its glory
Bathing in the moonlight
Cool summer breeze, caressing
The heart and soul of the lover
Making him sad, yet happy
Longing for his loved one
The desire to love and be loved
Burning within ever
Yet cooled by the wind
Her name whispered in his dreams
What be her name
The moon reflecting her face
The white dot in the dark sky.
The silver lining beyond the cloudless sky
Optimism, mysticism
The sky in gllom, grey & lifeless
Reflects the mood
The sun deep in thought
Even he needs rest
Sad, is losing its glow
Yet it shows, shining through
The cold and the snow
An image of your mind
Shines as the light falls
The light of day
The light of night
Doing away with the gloom
A warm spot amidst the cold
Passion burning still
Yet, what of the dark night
As it takes over the again
The lover finds solace and peace
A moment of his own
And yet never his
He gets to dream
The desire ever there
A little wishful, as if in a whisper
He wants to say,
'I love you, forever'
As if in the dream, he sees her
He wants to keep her
Captured in time
An epitome of timeless beauty
Like the moon he looks at
As if he wants to shout out a whisper
'I need you in my arms'
and all the words
The day, the light & passion
of all, forbids.
He wants her name
Ever glowing in his heart
To be written in stars
He does that
the stars speak of her
Winking, 'she can hear you'
she too sees the beauty of such
The wite dot on the dark sky.
2001, Palash Mitra
[Written for no one specific]
[:D crap]
Diaries and memories... III
Time
Tic toc, tic toc
The clock runs, angry hands
Never to stop
Ever spinning, till eternity bids it
Time is the mortal enemy
Going against us
As it always has
Or tis the eternal healer
Its the shadow of the sun
Its witness for all
It has seen me through
All the ages of pain
Through all the rivers of blood
The endless sands of time
Or so they say.
Lives are run down anr more spring up
All under the faithful watch
Seen by the Observer
The very creator\, or maybe the destructor
The true nature ne'er to be known
As you pass by
So does my agony
I let go of it
All the sorrow of ages
Wrapped up in a messy package
Decor of laces
The momentory joys
The laughs ans the tears
Freedom and bondage
The laces bind, yet keep it strong
As I stooped
the sweat and the blood, dripped and dripped
Took with them bits of me
Bits of my life's energy
Bits of my soul
As I soar
I regain them
I see my life
Reflected in your eyes
See the pain in yours
And forget mine.
You try to hide it, but I can see
I comfort you, and regain my soul
You give me back
Those very moments
Those very bits
That were stolen
From me, as I lay
Alone in the dark
Somewhere along the highway of life.
2002, Palash Mitra
Tic toc, tic toc
The clock runs, angry hands
Never to stop
Ever spinning, till eternity bids it
Time is the mortal enemy
Going against us
As it always has
Or tis the eternal healer
Its the shadow of the sun
Its witness for all
It has seen me through
All the ages of pain
Through all the rivers of blood
The endless sands of time
Or so they say.
Lives are run down anr more spring up
All under the faithful watch
Seen by the Observer
The very creator\, or maybe the destructor
The true nature ne'er to be known
As you pass by
So does my agony
I let go of it
All the sorrow of ages
Wrapped up in a messy package
Decor of laces
The momentory joys
The laughs ans the tears
Freedom and bondage
The laces bind, yet keep it strong
As I stooped
the sweat and the blood, dripped and dripped
Took with them bits of me
Bits of my life's energy
Bits of my soul
As I soar
I regain them
I see my life
Reflected in your eyes
See the pain in yours
And forget mine.
You try to hide it, but I can see
I comfort you, and regain my soul
You give me back
Those very moments
Those very bits
That were stolen
From me, as I lay
Alone in the dark
Somewhere along the highway of life.
2002, Palash Mitra
September 21, 2007
Diaries and memories... II
Something I wrote in 2001.. Must have been real pissed that day.. {Pissed: colloquial expression for anger. also colloquial expression for drunk.}
Is that light I see
Or is it just a reflection?
Of the pain in me
Is it fear
Those who are near
They'll be the first to mock
Cause a tear
Is there any goodness in me
Or just plain imperfection
Will I ever see reason
My life's unending season
It it the heat
Or the harsh taste of cold
Which way will my heart mold?
The knife in your heart
The more its pulled
The more it hurts
Or is it just a reflection?
Of the pain in me
Is it fear
Those who are near
They'll be the first to mock
Cause a tear
Is there any goodness in me
Or just plain imperfection
Will I ever see reason
My life's unending season
It it the heat
Or the harsh taste of cold
Which way will my heart mold?
The knife in your heart
The more its pulled
The more it hurts
... **The Darker Side of Life**...
As the sun goes upThe day is warmer
the life of eternity springs up
Opens new doors & new horizons
Makes way for te spring, and beauty
But what of me, the eternal soul
Am I not the beast, living like a mole.
He lives by night, afraid of the day
The nocturnal creature, befriending the dark
Who sent me here, my hell of joy
Ecstatic pleasure, torturous pain. an agony always
Can anyone help me, help huh?
Do I need help, one hand raised
The other on the trigger, ready to shoot
Me, or my enemy- one and the same.
What's that light, ever blinking
In the corner of my eye
My blind spot, or am I blind
I can't see beyond the lies
Are they facades, or is the truth itself one.
My handicapped soul, searching for the truth
Stumbling on the bodies of others as me
Even as I see, the obstacles
That lay ahead of me, or the bricks
That are to send me, to higer ground
Away from the mess, the crowd
Of the sorrowful and mindless
Am I not one of them, I think not
I'm mot mindless- I'm still searching
Not for heaven or hell
But for solid ground on which to stand
And say out loud - I'm alive
The bats mock me
They're blind, but they see my pain
If I were to fly, I wish I could
I'd be a bat
I'd see beyond sight
Then my ears wouldn't lie
Only the truth, undistorted and pure
Else I'd be the eagle
And fly for freedom. beyond barriers
Higher than high
The prince of the sky
Doing what I'd like, followin my own will
Fly away from the pain
Of the world & my soul
Leave the dark behind
Way- way below
And the sun would bow
Before me, as always
The eternal soul.
As the sun goes upThe day is warmer
the life of eternity springs up
Opens new doors & new horizons
Makes way for te spring, and beauty
But what of me, the eternal soul
Am I not the beast, living like a mole.
He lives by night, afraid of the day
The nocturnal creature, befriending the dark
Who sent me here, my hell of joy
Ecstatic pleasure, torturous pain. an agony always
Can anyone help me, help huh?
Do I need help, one hand raised
The other on the trigger, ready to shoot
Me, or my enemy- one and the same.
What's that light, ever blinking
In the corner of my eye
My blind spot, or am I blind
I can't see beyond the lies
Are they facades, or is the truth itself one.
My handicapped soul, searching for the truth
Stumbling on the bodies of others as me
Even as I see, the obstacles
That lay ahead of me, or the bricks
That are to send me, to higer ground
Away from the mess, the crowd
Of the sorrowful and mindless
Am I not one of them, I think not
I'm mot mindless- I'm still searching
Not for heaven or hell
But for solid ground on which to stand
And say out loud - I'm alive
The bats mock me
They're blind, but they see my pain
If I were to fly, I wish I could
I'd be a bat
I'd see beyond sight
Then my ears wouldn't lie
Only the truth, undistorted and pure
Else I'd be the eagle
And fly for freedom. beyond barriers
Higher than high
The prince of the sky
Doing what I'd like, followin my own will
Fly away from the pain
Of the world & my soul
Leave the dark behind
Way- way below
And the sun would bow
Before me, as always
The eternal soul.
Diaries and memories... I
I found a diary in my cupboard.. y'kno whr I keep my secret stash of pirates gold and the first print of my past life's autobiography- of course I did not write the bio.. someone else did. I just dictated. I was a bird then, an eagle, and some chap heard me and wrote about me- "The Know-how edition on Eagles". I that dairy I found in bold.. (this one in my hand).. AVOID GURLS.. I dunno why i write 'girls' as 'GURLS' (pronounce the same) but I wrote this in class VII. Heck
know why!! What a joke .. as if girls CAN be avoided.. :D
Ok the diary: [1997-2002]
Its really fascinatingly wierd now that I read all that I wrote in it.. some I can't mention- not cos they are private,
but cos they are just too much crap!! (I wonder if I'll think the same of all that I'm writing now, say 10 years down the line. I'm sure I will.) But what the heck.. I'm gonna bring some out.. Now don't be scared.. I wrote some crazed out shit.. but I do like some of my work.. Butin some.. Man I was Angry back then.. Will probably scan some of my drawings back then n uplowad them sometime.. again don't be scared.. Just read on.
Disclaimer: The author of the following was too dumb and probably still is so, so read at own risk. Please do not file lawsuit against him for breaching his own childhood self's trust and cruelly printing such dumb shit. Thank you. Enjoy.
Random Thoughts
I smile when I feel like crying
End up laughing the whole day
To skip those tears
I face my fears
A splash of red on this life so grey
Is this the route to heaven
Or a one-way ticket to hell
We'd never know would we
Until we're out of this prison cell.
Is it any greener out there
Is it greener on the other side
Is it worth the risks we take
Is it worth dying for love's sake?
Are we afraid of Death?
I sure am not
Not a fear that works in me-
Just blatant respect
Some say 'Life is valuable'
Who know what its worth?
What they say and what they mean
Might just be some empty words.
I refuse to die
I refuse to live
On other's terms
Or other's dreams
Life's no flower
To be preserved with care
It'll wither and fall
In our silent stare
Love the risks I take
Mylife's my own
Will live it my own way
'One should be sensible'
Who know what sense is
Is it what this society says
The same the propagetes violence
The same that discredits honorable death
Yet takes the lives of such
Who were not to die
If one were to live only for love
What about all those broken hearts
Should they be all dead
Or living in shells of created misery
Some play with their hearts at stake
Some die for incredulous 'love'
But aren;t they cowards
Who ne'er got to know
The value of their own lives
Maybe someday you'll realise
Maybe all I said is all shit
Maybe you need to learn more..
Maybe
Some dark stuff mate.. but don't lose heart.. it gets better later... :D
know why!! What a joke .. as if girls CAN be avoided.. :D
Ok the diary: [1997-2002]
Its really fascinatingly wierd now that I read all that I wrote in it.. some I can't mention- not cos they are private,
but cos they are just too much crap!! (I wonder if I'll think the same of all that I'm writing now, say 10 years down the line. I'm sure I will.) But what the heck.. I'm gonna bring some out.. Now don't be scared.. I wrote some crazed out shit.. but I do like some of my work.. Butin some.. Man I was Angry back then.. Will probably scan some of my drawings back then n uplowad them sometime.. again don't be scared.. Just read on.
Disclaimer: The author of the following was too dumb and probably still is so, so read at own risk. Please do not file lawsuit against him for breaching his own childhood self's trust and cruelly printing such dumb shit. Thank you. Enjoy.
Random Thoughts
I smile when I feel like crying
End up laughing the whole day
To skip those tears
I face my fears
A splash of red on this life so grey
Is this the route to heaven
Or a one-way ticket to hell
We'd never know would we
Until we're out of this prison cell.
Is it any greener out there
Is it greener on the other side
Is it worth the risks we take
Is it worth dying for love's sake?
Are we afraid of Death?
I sure am not
Not a fear that works in me-
Just blatant respect
Some say 'Life is valuable'
Who know what its worth?
What they say and what they mean
Might just be some empty words.
I refuse to die
I refuse to live
On other's terms
Or other's dreams
Life's no flower
To be preserved with care
It'll wither and fall
In our silent stare
Love the risks I take
Mylife's my own
Will live it my own way
'One should be sensible'
Who know what sense is
Is it what this society says
The same the propagetes violence
The same that discredits honorable death
Yet takes the lives of such
Who were not to die
If one were to live only for love
What about all those broken hearts
Should they be all dead
Or living in shells of created misery
Some play with their hearts at stake
Some die for incredulous 'love'
But aren;t they cowards
Who ne'er got to know
The value of their own lives
Maybe someday you'll realise
Maybe all I said is all shit
Maybe you need to learn more..
Maybe
Some dark stuff mate.. but don't lose heart.. it gets better later... :D
IRONY
An old man turned ninety-eight
He won the lottery and died the next day
It's a black fly in your Chardonnay
It's a death row pardon two minutes too late
And isn't it ironic... don't you think
It's like rain on your wedding day
It's a free ride when you've already paid
It's the good advice that you just didn't take
Who would've thought... it figures
Mr. Play It Safe was afraid to fly
He packed his suitcase and kissed his kids goodbye
He waited his whole damn life to take that flight
And as the plane crashed down he thought
"Well isn't this nice..."
And isn't it ironic... don't you think
Well life has a funny way of sneaking up on you
When you think everything's okay and everything's going right
And life has a funny way of helping you out when
You think everything's gone wrong and everything blows up
In your face
A traffic jam when you're already late
A no-smoking sign on your cigarette break
It's like ten thousand spoons when all you need is a knife
It's meeting the man of my dreams
And then meeting his beautiful wife
And isn't it ironic...don't you think
A little too ironic...and, yeah, I really do think...
"Ironic" - ALANIS MORISSETTE
"...an article in Slate, Microsoft's on-line magazine" talks of "a poignant little story by Michael Hirschorn about his struggle to achieve freedom from irony. He had come to the mournful conclusion that, in this period of history, irony promotes emotional dishonesty. He was giving it up, the way others give up cigarettes or alcohol. He wrote about trying to achieve sincerity by responding honestly to all questions and by actually enjoying (rather than sneering at) culture and humanity."He won the lottery and died the next day
It's a black fly in your Chardonnay
It's a death row pardon two minutes too late
And isn't it ironic... don't you think
It's like rain on your wedding day
It's a free ride when you've already paid
It's the good advice that you just didn't take
Who would've thought... it figures
Mr. Play It Safe was afraid to fly
He packed his suitcase and kissed his kids goodbye
He waited his whole damn life to take that flight
And as the plane crashed down he thought
"Well isn't this nice..."
And isn't it ironic... don't you think
Well life has a funny way of sneaking up on you
When you think everything's okay and everything's going right
And life has a funny way of helping you out when
You think everything's gone wrong and everything blows up
In your face
A traffic jam when you're already late
A no-smoking sign on your cigarette break
It's like ten thousand spoons when all you need is a knife
It's meeting the man of my dreams
And then meeting his beautiful wife
And isn't it ironic...don't you think
A little too ironic...and, yeah, I really do think...
"Ironic" - ALANIS MORISSETTE
What then is 'irony'? "Irony is a form of utterance that postulates a double audience,
consisting of one party that hearing shall hear & shall not understand, & another party that, when more is meant than meets the ear, is aware both of that more & of the outsiders’ incomprehension." [H. W. Fowler in Modern English Usage] The irony of this statement is
that it does not hold true for most cases as Modern English Usage is a book from 1939, reprinted in 1959 and we'd all agree the world and the language of the world has all but changed from then. The whole point of irony (if there is at all any) is that it is rooted in the time-space continium. A critique of something that exists now or existed in the past in the form of acceptance of the subject- with undertone of disregard, contempt, or sarcasm. The question is where does irony end and cynicism take over. Of course one may say that they
are one and the same thing (and I will disagree), but as far as irony is concerned - it does require a greater understanding of the world around, for only then can one question and resort to this form of criticism. A cynic will criticise and hold the other in contempt
regardless of his or her own understanding of the subject for one is then rooted in the arogance that, what one knows is beyond judgemnt or question- by any party- especially
one seemingly less equipped than him or her.
The reason I choose this topic today, is because I see Irony & Cynicism taking over our world today- in our thoughts, words and actions. We do not believe in what we say, and do not say what we truly believe. We hear sincere words and question the speaker's validity; pass judgement on the human race- forgetting we are part of it. A quest to prove ourselves superior has led to a facade of near-blind belief in the Supremacy of 'I, Me and My Life'.
We forget we are also 'We', for without 'We', we do not exist- our lives are empty dreams,
our reasons are scattered, our words are but false. There is war going on - a battle of thought
and ideals. We feel that, well 'my words do not count. I may just say something about someone- especially about those who I do not like or who do not confirm to
my belief system and what difference will it make.' Well it does make a difference. Therein lies the roots of Dogmatism- and gives rise to the great Evil of Fanaticism. There is a battle going on in the world today- against igonrance, against devilish irony. What do We do?
Who do we trust- what do we believe in and where do our beliefs lead us? "Language is our chief means for the expression and communication of thought. Thoughts and beliefs may reveal themselves in non-linguistic behaviour,
but they are only directly expressed linguistically. Without thought
there could be no language, but without language, most kinds of thought would be impossible." [Henry Laycock, Queen’s University, Canada]
It is important for us to develop our thought- our language of expression- polish ourselves, so to speak- make sure we are heard and understood, and really really make sure we understand each person right. There are situations we can't avoid, but how we tackle them will be the key to making this world a safer place to live in. Maybe I am not the person you should listen to-
at least listen to the person next to you and listen to yourself- at least listen.
consisting of one party that hearing shall hear & shall not understand, & another party that, when more is meant than meets the ear, is aware both of that more & of the outsiders’ incomprehension." [H. W. Fowler in Modern English Usage] The irony of this statement is
that it does not hold true for most cases as Modern English Usage is a book from 1939, reprinted in 1959 and we'd all agree the world and the language of the world has all but changed from then. The whole point of irony (if there is at all any) is that it is rooted in the time-space continium. A critique of something that exists now or existed in the past in the form of acceptance of the subject- with undertone of disregard, contempt, or sarcasm. The question is where does irony end and cynicism take over. Of course one may say that they
are one and the same thing (and I will disagree), but as far as irony is concerned - it does require a greater understanding of the world around, for only then can one question and resort to this form of criticism. A cynic will criticise and hold the other in contempt
regardless of his or her own understanding of the subject for one is then rooted in the arogance that, what one knows is beyond judgemnt or question- by any party- especially
one seemingly less equipped than him or her.
The reason I choose this topic today, is because I see Irony & Cynicism taking over our world today- in our thoughts, words and actions. We do not believe in what we say, and do not say what we truly believe. We hear sincere words and question the speaker's validity; pass judgement on the human race- forgetting we are part of it. A quest to prove ourselves superior has led to a facade of near-blind belief in the Supremacy of 'I, Me and My Life'.
We forget we are also 'We', for without 'We', we do not exist- our lives are empty dreams,
our reasons are scattered, our words are but false. There is war going on - a battle of thought
and ideals. We feel that, well 'my words do not count. I may just say something about someone- especially about those who I do not like or who do not confirm to
my belief system and what difference will it make.' Well it does make a difference. Therein lies the roots of Dogmatism- and gives rise to the great Evil of Fanaticism. There is a battle going on in the world today- against igonrance, against devilish irony. What do We do?
Who do we trust- what do we believe in and where do our beliefs lead us? "Language is our chief means for the expression and communication of thought. Thoughts and beliefs may reveal themselves in non-linguistic behaviour,
but they are only directly expressed linguistically. Without thought
there could be no language, but without language, most kinds of thought would be impossible." [Henry Laycock, Queen’s University, Canada]
It is important for us to develop our thought- our language of expression- polish ourselves, so to speak- make sure we are heard and understood, and really really make sure we understand each person right. There are situations we can't avoid, but how we tackle them will be the key to making this world a safer place to live in. Maybe I am not the person you should listen to-
at least listen to the person next to you and listen to yourself- at least listen.
This is often called an age of irony, and certainly public life is coloured by what Samuel Johnson defined as: 'A mode of speech in which the meaning is contrary to the words.'
Recent careers have been built on irony, such as David Letterman's and Jerry Seinfeld's.
But, of course, irony has been with us since antiquity. Anatole France, who won the 1921 Nobel Prize for literature, claimed that a world without irony would be like a forest without birds: 'Irony is the gaiety of meditation and the joy of wisdom.' Irony, both a figure of speech and a way of looking at the world, lay beneath Jane Austen's style and gave Socrates his way of teaching. Shakespeare made Mark Antony the theatre's most famous ironist by having him call Julius Caesar's assassins 'honourable men,' meaning they were dishonourable men. Almost anyone in the United States who says 'I believe the president' is an ironist."
That's just the problem, according to the new irony police: It makes cynics of us all. We are irony-oppressed. Mockery has become a way of life (in the Elizabethan era, irony was sometimes called 'drye mocke'). It's elitist, too: It depends on double meaning and a double audience, divided into those who understand and those who don't. It corrodes honest speech and honest feeling while encouraging greed and cruelty. Irony, its enemies say, is private, selfish and indifferent, while earnestness is public, generous and concerned. For those who dislike the tone of life as we live it now, irony has become a villain."
Not long ago, a piece in the Minneapolis Star Tribune said irony is "crippling" the youth of America. Novelist David Foster Wallace has argued, in the Review of Contemporary Fiction, that irony is an agent of 'great despair and stasis in U.S. culture.' He blames television: People love or need television, and yet hate it at the same time, so they "try to disinfect themselves . . . by watching TV with weary irony."
In the book, 'For Common Things: Irony, Trust, and Commitment in America Today' Jedediah Purdy, tries nothing less than an attempt to alter the spirit of the times. Irony, says Purdy, makes us incapable of expressing sincere feelings or trusting in the feelings of others: "The point of irony is a quiet refusal to believe in the depths of relationships, the sincerity of motivation, or the truth of speech -- especially earnest speech."
Purdy admires the great ironists, such as Michel de Montaigne (who identified solemn self-righteousness as a major cause of war), Jonathan Swift and Mark Twain. But he believes that the prevalent contemporary form of irony cripples us, particularly young people, by draining words of meaning and moral weight. Purdy believes the current wave of irony originates in fear -- 'fear of betrayal, disappointment and humiliation, and a suspicion that believing, hoping, or caring too much will open us to these.' He keeps reaching for epigrams, but never quite gets there: 'The ironic sensibility inhibits the act of remembering how to value what you value.' Still, he makes a few points well. In the individual given to irony, 'wariness becomes a mistrust of language itself. He disowns his own words."
Insightful that his is, "for his part, Purdy seems unable to see the difference between irony and cheap cynicism. Purdy's intentions are honourable, and his perspective promising, but he writes with enough self-importance to give sincerity a bad name." [Robert Fulford's column about irony, Globe and Mail, September 18, 1999]
For me cynicysm is a drink spiked with poison- eating at our emotions and our sense of sincerity and free will. Irony- well you make out what you will. We look at contradictions and say- 'well what was it you were talkin about?' I say contradictions WILL be there. People WILL differ in their opinions- that's what makes us human. I believe we need to reach out more- see more- feel more. If even then we feel the world's such an ironical place to live in, well we're in for not-so-good a time in the not-so-far future. And if we come to realise that, yes, maybe, just maybe with a bit of effort, a bit of compassion and a bit of serious reconsideration of our own ideals and beliefs we can actually enjoy the world we live in- in spite of its seeming contradictions- well isn't that what'heaven' is all about?
Thanks to anyone who actually read the entire thing.
Ain't that ironical that I write a blog for all to read without at all expecting anyone to actually to do so!
Adios
A different dream.
Funny. We imagine. and we dream. Sometimes wonder if we started walking and walking, whether we'd
reach where we started(the earth is kinda round u'know - but i dn know swimming that well). I imagined
myself to be a pilot, a detective, a rocket-scientist, a dragon-slayer, a chai-walla, a nobody, a somebody, a corporate (for the 1st few days after i took up commerce in school. kids these days u'know. misguided. poor fellas)... hah even a rock-star. Never a film-maker. Never an artist of vision, sound, and thought, emotion, passion, notion. Funny part is i never stopped dreaming. Still dream of the dragons and the 'leprechauns'.
Of solving crimes of collosal magnitude! Living the bindas/hardcore life of a chai-walla... And now I attempt to make those dreams a reality. Now my Hero goes on the voyage for me. Shucks! Can even walk around the whole world and reach where it started. Life is funny. I suppose we never really let go of who we are, just learn the language of the world so we can listen, speak, shout, whisper - maybe just be silent. but be Heard. N if u can master the art of dreaming within and beyond reality - my frnd u are an achiever. Un r not then abnormal - u r exceptional! 'Master of ur mind, rather than let ur mind master u'. The heart ain't where the home is - the home is where the heart is. Maybe. Maybe not. Maybe I'm just misguided. Think I'll just keep on walking.
reach where we started(the earth is kinda round u'know - but i dn know swimming that well). I imagined
myself to be a pilot, a detective, a rocket-scientist, a dragon-slayer, a chai-walla, a nobody, a somebody, a corporate (for the 1st few days after i took up commerce in school. kids these days u'know. misguided. poor fellas)... hah even a rock-star. Never a film-maker. Never an artist of vision, sound, and thought, emotion, passion, notion. Funny part is i never stopped dreaming. Still dream of the dragons and the 'leprechauns'.
Of solving crimes of collosal magnitude! Living the bindas/hardcore life of a chai-walla... And now I attempt to make those dreams a reality. Now my Hero goes on the voyage for me. Shucks! Can even walk around the whole world and reach where it started. Life is funny. I suppose we never really let go of who we are, just learn the language of the world so we can listen, speak, shout, whisper - maybe just be silent. but be Heard. N if u can master the art of dreaming within and beyond reality - my frnd u are an achiever. Un r not then abnormal - u r exceptional! 'Master of ur mind, rather than let ur mind master u'. The heart ain't where the home is - the home is where the heart is. Maybe. Maybe not. Maybe I'm just misguided. Think I'll just keep on walking.
Infinite Mercy I
Give me a chance,
Maybe two.
Deserving I am not,
For the sins of the father and the son
Too great for just simple passing.
A flicker in the distance
Tells me we have lost.
Too great a burden you have carried
Pain unwanted, but still
Willingly- knowingly
You, mother
Undertake.
What can I do?
What is your plan?
In your infinite mercy you let me live.
Now let me prove.
Maybe two.
Deserving I am not,
For the sins of the father and the son
Too great for just simple passing.
A flicker in the distance
Tells me we have lost.
Too great a burden you have carried
Pain unwanted, but still
Willingly- knowingly
You, mother
Undertake.
What can I do?
What is your plan?
In your infinite mercy you let me live.
Now let me prove.
Change
What can I do?
How can I make a difference?
How can I bring change?
You don’t have to be an activist to make a difference in the world. If you
care deeply about the state of the world or even your own neighbourhood
but you can’t seem to be able to devote your whole life to this cause, here are some ideas to help you live your values by choosing simple yet effective actions that you can take every day After all, one is the mother of ten thousand and seemingly small actions taken individually by millions of people can change the world. This is the power of one, this is the power you have.
HOME:
• Use energy-efficient bulbs and appliances.
• Use water sparingly. Turn off the tap while you shave or brush your teeth.
• Avoid shower baths. Use buckets.
• Turn off the light and bulb switches when you step out of a room.
• Use environment-friendly detergents and cleaners.
• Live in a smaller home. Keep it clean, pest-free.
WORK:
• Make people from diverse backgrounds feel welcome.
• Confront injustice in the workplace.
• Value people over profit.
• Work to make your company more socially and environmentally responsible.
• Recycle paper. Use paper on both sides.
• Use your current job skills to make some difference to the world around you.
• Speak up if you see any one getting harassed unfairly or on sexual grounds.
FOOD:
• Don’t waste or throw away food.
• Reduce meat consumption; eat more fruits, vegetables, grains and raw foods.
• Eat healthy, sensible, preferably home-cooked food.
SHOPPING:
• Buy less stuff.
• Buy products with eco-packaging.
• Stop using plastic bags. Bring your own cloth bag.
• Reduce food packaging; buy in bulk.
• Don’t use products that have been tested on animals.
• Support local growers and grocers.
• Boycott socially irresponsible companies.
FRIENDS/FAMILY:
• Make quality time for loved ones.
• Choose interactive, involving modes of entertainment.
• Don’t encourage your children to play video games or with toys which promote violence.
• Encourage your children to learn something new every day.
• Encourage creative expression through, music, writing, arts, crafts, and conversation.
COMMUNITY
• Get to know your neighbours.
• Greet the liftman, thank the security guard, say hello to the old gentleman in the park.
• Donate your time and effort to some social cause, even if it’s one hour a month.
• Attend meetings of your building society.
• Get involved with your local ALM or citizens’ organisation.
• Support local arts and culture.
• Keep the front of your building or your shop clean.
• Bag all garbage responsibly.
• Start a vermiculture unit in your building.
• Encourage every one in the building to plant saplings.
• Protest if parks or open land is encroached upon.
• Protest if water bodies are filled up indiscriminately.
• Know your rights as a citizen.
• Be on friendly terms with your local police station.
ENVIRONMENT
• Stop littering.
• Stop spitting paan juice.
• Don’t smoke in public places. In fact, don’t smoke!!
• Use clean fuels.
• Don’t use fireworks that pollute.
• Don’t honk.
• Don’t urinate in public spaces.
MEDIA
• Watch less TV. Support non-commercial TV.
• Read something every day.
• Read something that expands your mind and horizons.
• Write letters to the Editor. Be heard.
• Reduce junk mail.
• Don’t encourage pornography.
TRANSPORT
• Set up a carpool for school and/or office.
• Go on a daily walk.
• Learn to ride a bicycle.
• Cycle or walk whenever possible.
• Take public transport.
• Don’t take your car out of the garage once a week.
POLITICS
• Vote.
• Get to know the people who are standing for election, their background and record.
• Support a party that reflects your values.
• Contact your local representative and share your views.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Powerful social change begins with powerful individual change. Become someone who inspires peace by his or her presence.
• Be a bridge, not a divider.
• Strive first to have dialogue.
• Reconsider your priorities.
“A great human revolution in the life of one single individual can change the destiny of society, the nation, and indeed that of entire humankind.”
Daisaku Ikeda
President, Soka Gakkai International
**Created by Bharat Soka Gakkai
**Not official document. Please do not distribute as such. But feel free to spread the message. [Palash]
How can I make a difference?
How can I bring change?
You don’t have to be an activist to make a difference in the world. If you
care deeply about the state of the world or even your own neighbourhood
but you can’t seem to be able to devote your whole life to this cause, here are some ideas to help you live your values by choosing simple yet effective actions that you can take every day After all, one is the mother of ten thousand and seemingly small actions taken individually by millions of people can change the world. This is the power of one, this is the power you have.
HOME:
• Use energy-efficient bulbs and appliances.
• Use water sparingly. Turn off the tap while you shave or brush your teeth.
• Avoid shower baths. Use buckets.
• Turn off the light and bulb switches when you step out of a room.
• Use environment-friendly detergents and cleaners.
• Live in a smaller home. Keep it clean, pest-free.
WORK:
• Make people from diverse backgrounds feel welcome.
• Confront injustice in the workplace.
• Value people over profit.
• Work to make your company more socially and environmentally responsible.
• Recycle paper. Use paper on both sides.
• Use your current job skills to make some difference to the world around you.
• Speak up if you see any one getting harassed unfairly or on sexual grounds.
FOOD:
• Don’t waste or throw away food.
• Reduce meat consumption; eat more fruits, vegetables, grains and raw foods.
• Eat healthy, sensible, preferably home-cooked food.
SHOPPING:
• Buy less stuff.
• Buy products with eco-packaging.
• Stop using plastic bags. Bring your own cloth bag.
• Reduce food packaging; buy in bulk.
• Don’t use products that have been tested on animals.
• Support local growers and grocers.
• Boycott socially irresponsible companies.
FRIENDS/FAMILY:
• Make quality time for loved ones.
• Choose interactive, involving modes of entertainment.
• Don’t encourage your children to play video games or with toys which promote violence.
• Encourage your children to learn something new every day.
• Encourage creative expression through, music, writing, arts, crafts, and conversation.
COMMUNITY
• Get to know your neighbours.
• Greet the liftman, thank the security guard, say hello to the old gentleman in the park.
• Donate your time and effort to some social cause, even if it’s one hour a month.
• Attend meetings of your building society.
• Get involved with your local ALM or citizens’ organisation.
• Support local arts and culture.
• Keep the front of your building or your shop clean.
• Bag all garbage responsibly.
• Start a vermiculture unit in your building.
• Encourage every one in the building to plant saplings.
• Protest if parks or open land is encroached upon.
• Protest if water bodies are filled up indiscriminately.
• Know your rights as a citizen.
• Be on friendly terms with your local police station.
ENVIRONMENT
• Stop littering.
• Stop spitting paan juice.
• Don’t smoke in public places. In fact, don’t smoke!!
• Use clean fuels.
• Don’t use fireworks that pollute.
• Don’t honk.
• Don’t urinate in public spaces.
MEDIA
• Watch less TV. Support non-commercial TV.
• Read something every day.
• Read something that expands your mind and horizons.
• Write letters to the Editor. Be heard.
• Reduce junk mail.
• Don’t encourage pornography.
TRANSPORT
• Set up a carpool for school and/or office.
• Go on a daily walk.
• Learn to ride a bicycle.
• Cycle or walk whenever possible.
• Take public transport.
• Don’t take your car out of the garage once a week.
POLITICS
• Vote.
• Get to know the people who are standing for election, their background and record.
• Support a party that reflects your values.
• Contact your local representative and share your views.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Powerful social change begins with powerful individual change. Become someone who inspires peace by his or her presence.
• Be a bridge, not a divider.
• Strive first to have dialogue.
• Reconsider your priorities.
“A great human revolution in the life of one single individual can change the destiny of society, the nation, and indeed that of entire humankind.”
Daisaku Ikeda
President, Soka Gakkai International
**Created by Bharat Soka Gakkai
**Not official document. Please do not distribute as such. But feel free to spread the message. [Palash]
Arkham Asylum
Gotham
Rain. A dry smile. A wet kiss from the skies. A pain he has felt many times before. The death of a dear friend,
nemesis and all around bad guy. He did not want it. But, it has happened.
He stands calm, maybe torn inside. "No better". Maybe not. The question mark always remains. But he is the
chosen one. So many try. Farce mostly. Only he is there- in the shadows. Black shines in black. Bullets fly-
free for all; blades shimmer as they rush to fulfill their mission. He risks it all; puts it all out there- every night.
How many choose to do so- question more important is why do they choose to do so? No reason you say- just plain
ol' justice n peace. No glory you say. I believe you are all about the glory- the most glorified over-hyped monsters-
far more dangerous than those you put down. Distorted role models. Peace don't begin with death- the only
death required for peace and justice and truth is the death of the lesser soul. Only thing you are interested in
IS your lesser self. The one in the shadows.
Arkham Asylum- the place for the true genius'. The man caught between two worlds- two personalities- two faces.
Aren't we all that- not one but two- maybe more. Doesn't he just put it out there. Make us realise. Bring out our
better faces. Ivy. Nature lover. Okay- distorted ideals. But passionate about the green- how many of us are. She gets
put down. ??The Riddler?? No one ever realised it wasn't just about the riddles- but the questions- he
questioned society- he questio9ned you. Yes- 'pure evil' they are- so you say. What if they change? No one ever counts
on that do they.
What would be accomplished from Arkham? Just fuel their desirefor world domination. While yo do the same-
only you wear a flashy suit- all of you- The Red n blue, the spider, the ones in the flashy underwears -
all of you! Maybe you are better than the rest- so you say. But, Gotham, nay- the world is counting on you.
The kids of our future want peace. They want a future free of hate. They want to smile free. Can you ensure that?
All of you living in the present- all of you thinking you did a great deed- helped a friend- killed a monster
(maybe a fellow human) - satisfied your feel-good ego... think beyond your lesser selves.
Think of the future. Think. Only change can lead to real victory.
The smile. It seems to fade now. I like you. Was a kid when I first saw you. Still feels like home.
But I too have to change. If you are getting all this, then listen. The time is now. The time is not past.
The chance is not gone. As the old ones always say- 'the world is yours to change.' I say, you change-
and the world will follow of its own accord- even Arkahm Asylum and all it holds.
Rain. A dry smile. A wet kiss from the skies. A pain he has felt many times before. The death of a dear friend,
nemesis and all around bad guy. He did not want it. But, it has happened.
He stands calm, maybe torn inside. "No better". Maybe not. The question mark always remains. But he is the
chosen one. So many try. Farce mostly. Only he is there- in the shadows. Black shines in black. Bullets fly-
free for all; blades shimmer as they rush to fulfill their mission. He risks it all; puts it all out there- every night.
How many choose to do so- question more important is why do they choose to do so? No reason you say- just plain
ol' justice n peace. No glory you say. I believe you are all about the glory- the most glorified over-hyped monsters-
far more dangerous than those you put down. Distorted role models. Peace don't begin with death- the only
death required for peace and justice and truth is the death of the lesser soul. Only thing you are interested in
IS your lesser self. The one in the shadows.
Arkham Asylum- the place for the true genius'. The man caught between two worlds- two personalities- two faces.
Aren't we all that- not one but two- maybe more. Doesn't he just put it out there. Make us realise. Bring out our
better faces. Ivy. Nature lover. Okay- distorted ideals. But passionate about the green- how many of us are. She gets
put down. ??The Riddler?? No one ever realised it wasn't just about the riddles- but the questions- he
questioned society- he questio9ned you. Yes- 'pure evil' they are- so you say. What if they change? No one ever counts
on that do they.
What would be accomplished from Arkham? Just fuel their desirefor world domination. While yo do the same-
only you wear a flashy suit- all of you- The Red n blue, the spider, the ones in the flashy underwears -
all of you! Maybe you are better than the rest- so you say. But, Gotham, nay- the world is counting on you.
The kids of our future want peace. They want a future free of hate. They want to smile free. Can you ensure that?
All of you living in the present- all of you thinking you did a great deed- helped a friend- killed a monster
(maybe a fellow human) - satisfied your feel-good ego... think beyond your lesser selves.
Think of the future. Think. Only change can lead to real victory.
The smile. It seems to fade now. I like you. Was a kid when I first saw you. Still feels like home.
But I too have to change. If you are getting all this, then listen. The time is now. The time is not past.
The chance is not gone. As the old ones always say- 'the world is yours to change.' I say, you change-
and the world will follow of its own accord- even Arkahm Asylum and all it holds.
September 20, 2007
Labyrinth
Clew
It all started one afternoon in late 05. It was a screening day. And we got the chance to savour some Welles – ‘The Trial’, based on a novel by Franz Kafka. Adapting Kafka! That sounds a bit ambiguous, but why not? Least a mere effort! Worth trying…
The first idea that was developed was not rooted in time and space. It was like a puzzle – a kinky game. Kafka, in his ‘Passers-by’ avatar, was there but it was somewhat difficult to understand the context and what we are trying to voice out. There was an inane vacuum.
Ultimately we figured out the status of the character, he is a student; gave it spatial planes - roads and college – but still he was nameless and he had no motive. Still it was pretty much vague and heavily metaphorical. Then somehow something happened. Magic? Greece and the good old myth of Theseus and Minotaur! Can we figure out the clew to reach the center of the ‘Labyrinthine Hex’? Still a dream…
Come December and we were struggling to give a proper shape to our script. First we thought why not give a name to our character! Can it be Minhas or Minotaur of ‘The Dark Labyrinth’? Maybe Manas? Mynahs?? Strange eh??
Too much of mind games but nothing concrete! Time for some action, so one Sunday we planned to go to check out the locations for the alley sequence and bingo! Again a whole new motive was added to the plot. Introspection on a greater plane. And now came the real tough time. We felt the need of a concrete story with a proper trajectory. Innumerable ideas, haphazard words, anonymous quotes, global music, massive books, sleepless nights, hours of brainstorming sessions – but still we were living silent!
From an unnamed character to an unnamed college-goer to Minos the college-goer to Minos the journalist to Manas the journalist to Minhas the journalist and then to Minhas the investigative journalist! Phew, quite a long journey!! We thought about a story, worked on the search keeping the alley labyrinth in mind and reached a stage. But somehow we realized that the main concept of the multiplicity and intangibility of reality has become overshadowed and obscured during this process. But we felt that to make it comprehensible we have to stick to this one and it took a good shape. And we were somehow much overwhelmed with the ‘the then’ end product.
But as they say when you are too happy – it’s a sign of disaster. Came disillusionment – the script reading session. And realization – we have to make it ‘happen’ somehow!
And once more we are back to the mode of innumerable ideas, haphazard words, anonymous quotes, global music, massive books, sleepless nights, hours of brainstorming sessions – and ultimately we saw a ray of hope – came the flash of the camera and a few days more and bingo! Came our rescuer – The dead guy aka Dead Guy Rocking (DGR). Came two fellow journalists of Minhas. No, I mean not Minhas anymore rather Mynahs. Then a ‘missing link’. We really can’t decipher how this phase went. But we reached the goal about which we all were dreaming and the pure hard work Anu – Sreya - Palash made it possible. We got Mynahs, Jets, Simian and our Dredge Clew Myphos (DGR) or better be Dredge Clew Azores (more Greek kind)!! Birth of ‘the’ Labyrinth – our LAB!!
Ultimately we felt the maze within us, felt the fear of seeing the ‘self’ face to face in the naked stark daylight – we got everyone rather everything we wanted – ‘The Dark Labyrinth’ (Greek Mythology), Franz Kafka – image-music-text and the much-awaited motive!
Finally came the ‘myth’ factor courtesy Joseph Campbell and his notion of myth! And we realized an amazing thing – we realized that the story we are working on, the concept, which is bugging our brain cells, is already there in the sphere of this mythical world. As if – “THE LABYRINTH IS THOROUGHLY KNOWN, WE HAVE ONLY TO FOLLOW THE THREAD OF THE HERO-PATH”… Thus we ultimately got our ‘clew’!
Only we know how though it was to transform this ‘film’ into a ‘myth’ – it was truly inspiring and enriching experience. And we had our share of criticism that helped this film to evolve. It was a journey after which – “ WE WILL COME TO THE CENTER OF OUR OWN EXISTANCE, AND WHERE WE HAD THOUGHT TO BE ALONE WE WILL BE WITH THE WORLD.”
It all started one afternoon in late 05. It was a screening day. And we got the chance to savour some Welles – ‘The Trial’, based on a novel by Franz Kafka. Adapting Kafka! That sounds a bit ambiguous, but why not? Least a mere effort! Worth trying…
The first idea that was developed was not rooted in time and space. It was like a puzzle – a kinky game. Kafka, in his ‘Passers-by’ avatar, was there but it was somewhat difficult to understand the context and what we are trying to voice out. There was an inane vacuum.
Ultimately we figured out the status of the character, he is a student; gave it spatial planes - roads and college – but still he was nameless and he had no motive. Still it was pretty much vague and heavily metaphorical. Then somehow something happened. Magic? Greece and the good old myth of Theseus and Minotaur! Can we figure out the clew to reach the center of the ‘Labyrinthine Hex’? Still a dream…
Come December and we were struggling to give a proper shape to our script. First we thought why not give a name to our character! Can it be Minhas or Minotaur of ‘The Dark Labyrinth’? Maybe Manas? Mynahs?? Strange eh??
Too much of mind games but nothing concrete! Time for some action, so one Sunday we planned to go to check out the locations for the alley sequence and bingo! Again a whole new motive was added to the plot. Introspection on a greater plane. And now came the real tough time. We felt the need of a concrete story with a proper trajectory. Innumerable ideas, haphazard words, anonymous quotes, global music, massive books, sleepless nights, hours of brainstorming sessions – but still we were living silent!
From an unnamed character to an unnamed college-goer to Minos the college-goer to Minos the journalist to Manas the journalist to Minhas the journalist and then to Minhas the investigative journalist! Phew, quite a long journey!! We thought about a story, worked on the search keeping the alley labyrinth in mind and reached a stage. But somehow we realized that the main concept of the multiplicity and intangibility of reality has become overshadowed and obscured during this process. But we felt that to make it comprehensible we have to stick to this one and it took a good shape. And we were somehow much overwhelmed with the ‘the then’ end product.
But as they say when you are too happy – it’s a sign of disaster. Came disillusionment – the script reading session. And realization – we have to make it ‘happen’ somehow!
And once more we are back to the mode of innumerable ideas, haphazard words, anonymous quotes, global music, massive books, sleepless nights, hours of brainstorming sessions – and ultimately we saw a ray of hope – came the flash of the camera and a few days more and bingo! Came our rescuer – The dead guy aka Dead Guy Rocking (DGR). Came two fellow journalists of Minhas. No, I mean not Minhas anymore rather Mynahs. Then a ‘missing link’. We really can’t decipher how this phase went. But we reached the goal about which we all were dreaming and the pure hard work Anu – Sreya - Palash made it possible. We got Mynahs, Jets, Simian and our Dredge Clew Myphos (DGR) or better be Dredge Clew Azores (more Greek kind)!! Birth of ‘the’ Labyrinth – our LAB!!
“Past nine, late night time –
Dense fixation, mellow scent of adventure
Lead me towards you, inside your womb.
Lit up by ignorance –
Plentitude of neon glow and false blazes
Followed the opaque grainy light stream.
Is it darkness –?
Or my fear, your fear
My imagination coupled with yours?
You me us or we
We me you or us
Or is it only you within me
Or me within you?
Known alley – unknown darkness
Known thought – unknown light
I thought I know the way
How am I misplaced then!
Clues disappeared vexing me
You emerged breaking my mind
Choking my fears…
Felt you again inside me –
Was it you or me?
I or we?
It was us – meeting face to face…”
Words by Sreya Chatterjee( Hey gurl do excuse for using your words… they say what needs to be said - Palash)Dense fixation, mellow scent of adventure
Lead me towards you, inside your womb.
Lit up by ignorance –
Plentitude of neon glow and false blazes
Followed the opaque grainy light stream.
Is it darkness –?
Or my fear, your fear
My imagination coupled with yours?
You me us or we
We me you or us
Or is it only you within me
Or me within you?
Known alley – unknown darkness
Known thought – unknown light
I thought I know the way
How am I misplaced then!
Clues disappeared vexing me
You emerged breaking my mind
Choking my fears…
Felt you again inside me –
Was it you or me?
I or we?
It was us – meeting face to face…”
Ultimately we felt the maze within us, felt the fear of seeing the ‘self’ face to face in the naked stark daylight – we got everyone rather everything we wanted – ‘The Dark Labyrinth’ (Greek Mythology), Franz Kafka – image-music-text and the much-awaited motive!
Finally came the ‘myth’ factor courtesy Joseph Campbell and his notion of myth! And we realized an amazing thing – we realized that the story we are working on, the concept, which is bugging our brain cells, is already there in the sphere of this mythical world. As if – “THE LABYRINTH IS THOROUGHLY KNOWN, WE HAVE ONLY TO FOLLOW THE THREAD OF THE HERO-PATH”… Thus we ultimately got our ‘clew’!
Only we know how though it was to transform this ‘film’ into a ‘myth’ – it was truly inspiring and enriching experience. And we had our share of criticism that helped this film to evolve. It was a journey after which – “ WE WILL COME TO THE CENTER OF OUR OWN EXISTANCE, AND WHERE WE HAD THOUGHT TO BE ALONE WE WILL BE WITH THE WORLD.”
My film- my reason.... please excuse
‘The Labyrinth’ is a search - for identity, for resemblance, for a space beyond captivity and above all a search for the unexplained. An episode or just an illusion? This is the question where the nucleus of this myth lies. Scattered clues and fragmented memories lead us to an unknown destination, but what is the intent of this journey? Is it really a search or a mere game? ‘The Labyrinth’ plays with the notion of reality and relativity of reality and tries to explore the miraculous power of the cinematic dialect. You never know what it can actually do?
Hero
“FURTHER MORE WE ARE NOT EVEN TO RISK THE ADVENTURE ALONE FOR THE HEROES OF ALL TIME HAVE GONE BEFORE US, THE LABYRINTH IS THOROUGHLY KNOWN, WE HAVE ONLY TO FOLLOW THE THREAD OF THE HERO-PATH, AND WHERE WE HAD THAT TO FIND AN ABOMINATION WE SHALL FIND A GOD AND WHERE WE HAD THOUGHT TO SLAY ANOTHER WE SHALL SLAY OUR SELF, WHERE WE THOUGHT TO TRAVEL OUTWARD, WE WILL COME TO THE CENTER OF OUR OWN EXIATANCE, AND WHERE WE HAD THOUGHT TO BE ALONE WE WILL BE WITH THE WORLD.”
- JOSEPH CAMPBELL
- JOSEPH CAMPBELL
You - yes you... I'm talking to you!
I asked him- 'why'. Said I don't know. Maybe it was destiny. 'I don't believe in destiny y'know. i believe in purpose.' The response wasn't quite what he was expecting. He turned around. Ever so slight. I could see the mad glint in his eyes. He had lost his way. 'Let me show you,' I say. 'Maybe, then you'll live truly.' But I knew he did not want that. He had come here to die and die alone he would not. 'Take down all humanity with you,' his master had said. Luc's puppet, on invisble strings. "WAKE UP!!" Do you not see the folly of your own existence- a wretched life- a wretched death. Can you not give me your time, your passion of heart- so it may not be distorted- polluted in the dry sands of the wasteland. Can you not spare my fellow mates- for they are wise, yet they seek your way in arrogant doubt. I shall lead them I say- but for the same hand drawing from the well. Eternal. Etheral. Existential.
Yesterday I had lived, you say. Today is my time for passing. But NO.. NO.. NO. It is too precious. Time is of essence. The essence of victory lies in the use of our ally- time. Luc's defeat lies in the conquering of our greatest fear- our most dangerous opponent- the Passing of Time. I know what you fear. But it is but a delusion. It may be final .. now.. but not then. I can show you, but will you let me? I can see the highest peak.. for you, me and all of us. Though the ghost of Christmas past beackons n taunts- lauds and hits- lies and praises- frees and binds. i will not let them get me. I only ask for courage. I only ask for you to listen. I will show you the way, and find my own, someday.
Yesterday I had lived, you say. Today is my time for passing. But NO.. NO.. NO. It is too precious. Time is of essence. The essence of victory lies in the use of our ally- time. Luc's defeat lies in the conquering of our greatest fear- our most dangerous opponent- the Passing of Time. I know what you fear. But it is but a delusion. It may be final .. now.. but not then. I can show you, but will you let me? I can see the highest peak.. for you, me and all of us. Though the ghost of Christmas past beackons n taunts- lauds and hits- lies and praises- frees and binds. i will not let them get me. I only ask for courage. I only ask for you to listen. I will show you the way, and find my own, someday.
July 20, 2007
teish theke shuru (life starts at 23)
it started sometime back... y'know when i kinda took entry in this world some 23 yrs back. But then i wonder how much have I really learnt in these 2 odd decades? Maybe not much. So here's to a fresh beginning. It feels good to be alive. It feels good to be reborn.
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