Dr Manisha’s poem for Different Truths depicts an immaterial spirit’s journey from earthly constraints to freedom, hinting at a possible longing for its embodied past before rebirth.

It rose from the burning embers and ashes
And flew high to the dark firmament.
Carefree, uncaged, dancing, swirling, and swishing;
Formless, weightless, and without any bindings.
In fleshy garbs ‘twas tightly caged
Branded by gender, class, religion, and nationality.
Yet it revelled and suffered too, the inevitable strife and skirmishes
All of it was only a play; it never occurred, though.
How puny, futile, and laughable
The life once dwelt.
The immaterial spirit
When released, relished and reckoned the best.
Yet perhaps it loved
The din, tumult, and upheavals of bondage.
Thus, rose from the ashes like a Phoenix
And took a form again.

Picture design by Anumita Roy

Dr Manisha Saxena

Dr Manisha Saxena is a multifaceted paediatrician, novelist, poet, travel blogger, and citizen journalist. She has published works in The Times of India, Outlook Traveller, CNN IBN, and anthologies. She has received awards like Women's Pride from Rotary and Jan Shikshan Sansthan, and has delivered book talks at prestigious institutions. She lives in Bharuch, Gujarat.

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