In Other Words: Poems By: David Matthews, Javed Akhtar, Ali Hussain Mir

In Other Words: A Collection of Poetry by Javed Akhtar

Experience the Urban Landscape through the Lens of a Master Poet

The literary world welcomes a compelling collection of poetry, In Other Words, edited by David Matthews and Ali Hussain Mir. This captivating anthology showcases the poetic genius of Javed Akhtar, whose verses reflect the pulsating heart of urban life.

About the Poetry

Akhtar's poetry is a vivid exploration of the cityscape that surrounds him. His verses resonate with themes of helplessness and hunger, crowds and solitude, filth and crime, fame and obscurity. He masterfully captures the stark contrasts between poverty and prosperity, the hot and cold seasons, and the raw, unfiltered emotions that thrive in the urban milieu.

Akhtar's unique timbre sets him apart from other poets. His poetry is not merely a echo of others' voices; it is a powerful reflection of his personal experiences and observations. Each poem is a bittersweet testament to his journey through life, walking barefoot on 'live-hot embers', yet finding tender moments in kissing flowers drenched in dew.

Despite its rootedness in urban realities, Akhtar's poetry speaks to universal themes. His verses transcend geographical boundaries, touching the hearts of readers across cultures and languages.

About Javed Akhtar

Javed Akhtar is no stranger to the literary world. Born into a family whose name is synonymous with Urdu literature, Akhtar has inherited a rich legacy that stretches back generations.

• His grandfather, Muztar Khairabadi, and great-grandfather, Syed Ahmad Husain Ruswa, were both celebrated poets in their own right.
• Akhtar's father, Jan Nisar Akhtar, and uncle, Majaz, are also renowned progressive poets. His mother, Safiya Akhtar, was the author of Zer-e-Lab.

This lineage has deeply influenced Akhtar's poetic style. Yet, he has carved out his own niche as a successful scriptwriter in the Hindi film industry and a prominent lyricist.

Book Details

• The book, titled In Other Words: Poems, is published by HarperCollins India (January, 2015) in a PAPERBACK binding. It bears the ISBN-13 number 9789351770237.
• The book comprises 180 pages, offering readers ample opportunity to immerse themselves in Akhtar's poetic universe.

In Other Words is more than just a collection of poems; it is an invitation to explore the urban landscape through the eyes of one of India's most celebrated poets. It is a testament to Akhtar's unique perspective, his profound insights into human nature, and his ability to capture the essence of life in its raw, unfiltered form.