Author Description

'A poem can start from anywhere', is the opening line of a Sarwat Hussain poem. 'I Invented Poetry', opens the first collection of Afzal Ahmed Syed's work. This is the beginning of a new mood in contemporary Urdu poetry. Characterizing this mood is a selection from the work of seven poets: Afzal Ahmed Syed, Azra Abbas, Sarwat Hussain, Sara Shagufta, Zeeshan Sahil, Tanveer Anjum and Saiduddin. Situated at an oblique angle to the mainstream, these poets mark a break with the classic tradition in form, language, and choice of subject matter. An ironic view of recent history and an interest in the ordinary makes them write in a more direct and open way, closer to the raw edge of life.