Lately, I have been gripped by an irresistible urge to write. The last time I wrote anything lengthy was for the answers to the essay-type questions in the school exams. Not knowing the precise answer, I had already written pages and pages of general things before realising that the essay had to be within five hundred words. Sweating profusely, I began to count the number of words and, sure enough, lost count several times before giving up and handing in the paper.
The dilemma faced by many writers would be about the topic and how to go about it. So, I decided to consult some friends about writing. A very wise chap in our five-member motley team grandly stated that such profound discussions must happen over a beer where supposedly brilliant literary ideas would flow. Four hours and ten pitchers later, at a dinghy bar where the friendly owner gives us credit, the only thing that flowed was the beer and, of course, frequent trips to the wash room. And when the bill came, sure enough, I was the only bloke left sitting at the table, and the kind bar owner nodded with brotherly understanding and gave me some auto money too.
A well-meaning uncle suggested that I write about Karma. That got me thinking. I know a senior couple who have led good, noble, virtuous lives, been pillars of support to their siblings and friends, and were respected by all. In a cruel turn of events, they lost their only child to a tragic road accident. A photo of the boy greets us as we enter their home, a stark, painful reminder of a young life that was taken away from our midst too soon. How do we accept this? Then there are children born with autism, cerebral palsy, Downs syndrome, and birth defects who suffer societal apathy throughout their lives. While their parents, siblings, and carers give them love and support and try to make them as comfortable as possible, it is still painful to see the difficulties and challenges that these specially abled children face in their daily lives. What wrong have these children or their parents done to suffer like this? Don’t these children too deserve to play with other children, attend regular schools, and lead normal lives?
There are so many incidents in life today where it appears that fate has been very cruel to good people while seemingly rewarding a lot more people and some deserving people too. So, what and where is karmic justice? I am not sure I can write about karma.
I still haven’t the faintest idea of what or how to write and am still waiting for inspiration to produce a masterpiece. Gentle readers, please be warned; it is just a matter of time. I may still put pen to paper.
(Published 24 October 2023, 19:06 IST)