LOCKDOWN POEMS Uma Krishnaswami

In 2020, the world was thrown into turmoil by the COVID-19 pandemic. As societies went into lockdown, people were forced to confront their own mortality and the fragility of their existence. For many, poetry became a lifeline, a way to process the collective trauma and find solace amidst the chaos.

Among those who turned to poetry during this unprecedented time was Uma Krishnaswami, a renowned Indian-American poet. Krishnaswami has long been celebrated for her lyrical verse and her ability to capture the nuances of human experience. With her "Lockdown Poems," she offers a poignant and deeply personal meditation on the effects of the pandemic.

A Collective Experience

LOCKDOWN POEMS

by Uma Krishnaswami

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11204 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	51 pages

FREE

Krishnaswami's "Lockdown Poems" are not merely a collection of isolated voices. They are a collective chorus, a testament to the shared experiences of millions around the world. In "The Vigil," she writes:

> "We watch, all of us, on our screens, > a plague unfold. > A virus, unseen, unheard, > invisible killer, > strikes the world."

These lines encapsulate the surreal and terrifying nature of the pandemic. It is an invisible enemy, one that lurks in the air we breathe and on the surfaces we touch. Krishnaswami's poetry captures the collective anxiety and fear that permeated the early days of lockdown.

An Exploration of Loneliness and Isolation

Lockdown brought with it an unprecedented level of loneliness and isolation. Cut off from friends, family, and the outside world, many people found themselves grappling with feelings of sadness, despair, and uncertainty. In "Solitude," Krishnaswami writes:

> "I am alone, yet not alone. > The world outside is still and silent, > but within, my thoughts race."

These lines reflect the paradox of lockdown. While it imposed physical isolation, it also created a space for intense introspection and self-reflection. Krishnaswami's poetry allows us to bear witness to the inner turmoil of those who were forced to confront their own mortality and come to terms with their own vulnerabilities.

Finding Resilience and Hope

Despite the darkness and despair that marked the early days of lockdown, Krishnaswami's "Lockdown Poems" also offer a glimmer of hope and resilience. In "The Sparrow," she writes:

> "In the midst of darkness, > a tiny song > breaks the silence."

The sparrow, a symbol of hope and renewal, represents the indomitable spirit that lies within us all. Even in the darkest of times, it is possible to find moments of joy and beauty. Krishnaswami's poetry encourages us to seek out these moments, to nurture them, and to find solace in the simple things in life.

A Poetic Legacy

Uma Krishnaswami's "Lockdown Poems" are a powerful and moving response to one of the most significant events in human history. They are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of poetry. As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing pandemic, Krishnaswami's poems will continue to offer solace, inspiration, and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope can prevail.

Further Reading:

• Uma Krishnaswami's website: https://www.umakrishnan.com/
• "Lockdown Poems" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Lockdown-Poems-Uma-krishnaswami/dp/1646043745

LOCKDOWN POEMS

by Uma Krishnaswami

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11204 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	51 pages

FREE