Kabita Samagra 2

• Author: Ketaki Kushari Dyson
• Genre: Poetry Collection (Kabita Samagra)
• Binding: Hardcover
• ISBN: 9789350407202
• Pages: 512
• Weight: 710 grams

About the Book

Kabita Samagra 2 is the second volume of Ketaki Kushari Dyson's poetry collection, which highlights the depth and richness of her long poetic career. Known for her expressive language and evocative imagery, Ketaki's poetry brings forth themes of cultural identity, love, loss, and the power of language. This collection includes her later poems, along with translations she has made of foreign poetry into Bengali, offering a unique bridge between global literary traditions and her own voice.

Key Themes:

• The Beauty of Language:
  Ketaki Kushari Dyson’s poetry is known for its lyrical beauty, where language itself becomes a medium of artistic expression and reflection.
• Translation and Cultural Exchange:
  One of the distinct features of this volume is the inclusion of her translations, which explore how foreign poetry, especially Anglo-Saxon and Argentinian works, are infused with the essence of Bengali culture.
• Identity and History:
  Her work also reflects deep personal and cultural identity, often linked to her experience of living in England while maintaining a connection with her Bengali roots.
• Poetry as a Bridge:
  Dyson’s translations reflect her belief in the process of "soulful assimilation" when adapting works from one language to another, making them deeply resonate with Bengali readers.

About the Author: Ketaki Kushari Dyson

Ketaki Kushari Dyson was born in Kolkata in 1940. Her long-standing literary career began in the 1960s, and she has since made significant contributions both to Bengali literature and English-language writing.

• Early Life and Education:

  • Born in Kolkata, she pursued her education in both Kolkata and Oxford.
  • She began writing in the 1960s, contributing poems to Bengali newspapers and magazines.

• Career and Contributions:

  • Dyson has lived in England for many years but has never ceased to write in Bengali.
  • She writes both poetry and prose in English and Bengali, with several published works in both languages.
  • Her works span multiple genres, including creative literature, essays, translations, and research-based writing.
  • She has translated the works of notable Bengali poets like Rabindranath Tagore and Buddhadeb Bose into English, alongside Anglo-Saxon poetry into Bengali.

• Awards and Honors:

  • Ananda Puraskar (1986, 1997): Dyson has won this prestigious award twice, once for her novel and research work and again for her extensive research on the influence of color perception in Rabindranath Tagore's art.
  • Bhubanmohini Dasi Award from Kolkata University.
  • Poetry Book Society’s Recommendation for her translation of Tagore’s poetry into English.
  • Star Ananda's ‘Best Bengali’ Honor (2009).

• Personal Life:

  • Dyson is deeply rooted in both Bengali and British cultures, which enriches her works. She continues to write and contribute to the literary world in both languages.

Why Read This Book?

• Rich Literary Tradition:
  Kabita Samagra 2 offers a deeper dive into Ketaki Kushari Dyson’s poetic evolution, showcasing her mastery over language and her ability to bridge cultural divides.
• Unique Blend of Translation and Original Poetry:
  This book stands out for its inclusion of Dyson's translations, which enrich Bengali literature with international perspectives, making it a valuable read for those interested in global literary traditions.
• Exploration of Identity:
  The book offers profound insights into the poet's complex identity, balancing her roots in Bengali culture with her experiences abroad.
• Poetry for the Soul:
  Whether you're a fan of Bengali poetry or enjoy translations that retain their cultural flavor, this collection offers a meaningful and enriching experience.

Conclusion

Kabita Samagra 2 is not just a collection of poems; it is an exploration of the relationship between language, culture, and identity. Ketaki Kushari Dyson’s work continues to inspire with its delicate blend of personal experience and universal themes, making it an essential read for those interested in contemporary Bengali poetry and the art of translation.