Fathers and Sons

You were not wildly ambitious, you spent a lot of time with me, 

You were an average guy out in the world, but to me you were special and all that could be.

You sent me to schools that were above our class, and I was grateful as well as pained,

That my father was merely a teacher, I kept secret, lest I be mocked and shamed.

My love for you has grown over time, and respect has increased further fold,

That you made food for me, while mom used to commute, was ahead of its time and bold.

It has taken me a while to realize, that success is not what its claimed to be,

The depth of our bond, the way you shaped me, is your achievement, there for all to see. 

 

I am a father now, trying to walk in your shoes, said goodbye to a well-paying job, 

Giving my gift of time, but no more tangible stuff, did I just his childhood rob?

While earlier he could say with pride in his class, my father is a so and so,

Talking about your father, who has no permanent gig, is now a strict no no.

 

Life has come full circle, I hope he'll realize one day,

The need to keep his ambitions in check, and make time with his child to play.

 

 

 

Writing Dilemma - Part II

Who are you, if you do not write?

You are a poet or not, isn't it black or white?

I'm kinda, I'm sorta, I also ran,

I pen a few poems when I can.

Once in a blue moon, I get hit by the muse,

Not able to pen at will, whats the use?

I'll bare myself out, when I have something to say,

Wont a daily writing regime, instead save my day?

Hunched on my desk, struggling for words, doesn't seem right,

Not flowing from the depths, the poem will come back to bite.

I can force myself to craft a beauty, can I give it a soul? 

Weaving emotions from thin air, won't it take a toll?

I try to be scientific in my approach, creating a lot in the hope, there will be a work of art,

Inspired by humdrum events of the day, the poems will be humdrum - I don't get that part!

 

Taking Time-Off

Everyone looks up at me, I'm the homemaker,  

I'm the default emotional support, the nanny, the caretaker. 

Once in a while I suffer, from a little cold and cough,

And when I indulge in a little self care, feel guilty for taking time-off.

Everyone looks up at me, I'm the breadwinner,

Hunched on my desk throughout the day, I'm usually late for the dinner. 

Once in a while I plan a leave, saying enough is enough,

So many projects hanging at workplace, feel guilty for taking time-off.

 

Everyone looks up at me, I'm the family's hope, 

Though only a child, I study long hours, can somehow manage to cope. 

Once in a while I like to play, with other kids in play-off,

Playing during the exams is a strict taboo, feel guilty for taking time-off.

I don't know where we are going, why all are short of time,  

It seems totally ludicrous,  that taking time for yourself feels a crime!

Women Day

Multiple sessions scheduled, technology not working,

Panic sets in, despair is lurking.

Problems are umpteen, need to add a speaker to the live-stream,

And to go live on FB and insta simultaneously- enough to make you scream.

 

We somehow remain calm, find out a tech solution,

We'll broadcast the sessions as promised, we made a firm resolution.

Once decided, all the barriers melted, the right software acquired,

Everyone charged and geared for the day- feeling a bit inspired.

The first session didn't go as per the plan, there was a slight hiccup,

Putting our brains together, we manged with some luck.

The overnight meeting did pay off, at the end we went viral,

Also built a strong team culture- locked in an upward spiral.

The Women Day planning was hectic, and execution fraught with risk,

We passed with flying colors, now off to business brisk. 

Writing Dilemma

Sitting down to pen a poem, end up drawing a blank, 

The themes are repeating, and I'm getting bored, to be frank. 

What ought I write about, there's nothing exciting to share,

About topics I have realized, that nobody really cares.

How you say it is what matters, your non-verbals, your style,

How to portray that in a poem,  have patience, I'm giving it a trial.

The choice of words, the rhyme, the meter, the lyricism, 

I hope to get this right, not shroud it in mysticism.

Why you write in the first place, needs to be equally addressed, 

Another important question is, to whom are these addressed?

Writing 14 lines of rhyme, do not make a sonnet be true, 

What you need is someone worthy of love- and that are far and few.

I've kept writing for so long, never in return I got a share or like,

If I don't get a comment from you soon, I may as well go on a strike!

Friend Recommendation

Her name pops up, in people you may know, 

Do you know her, asks FB, I'm tempted to say no.

Sending a friend request is an option at length I consider,  

The fear of rejection makes me backtrack, and strongly reconsider.

Somewhat hesitatingly, I finally send the friend request,

Endless waiting follows- have I succeeded in my quest?

Constantly checking her profile, just to make sure,

She has accepted me in her fold, anointed me pure.

Greatly relieved to see, that she has become a friend,

Great validation, that our friendship didn't end. 

Barely a month goes, and I'm aghast to discover,

Her name's again in recommended list- its hard to recover. 

I had expected when she accepted the request, it will last at least a while,

But in a week to be back to square one is disappointing, and on her part, somewhat vile.

Social Media Outpourings

Facebook reveals, that its your birthday,

Greetings pour in, sending wishes your way. 

Your day ends responding to messages with thanks,

If it wasn't for Facebook, it would have drawn blanks.

LinkedIn reveals, you have changed your job,

For a moment you become, the platform's heartthrob. 

Congratulations pour in, wishing you luck in new role,

No one caring whats in store, what the new job will take toll.

Twitter reveals, you are an opinionated prick,

On left or right, its clear to which side you stick.

Trolls pour in, attacking you left and right,

You solidify your position, with all your might.

This social media is good, lets others know whats important, 

But if used in a mechanized way, it becomes totally impotent.

A Milestone

Two thirds of the journey is over and done,

A sense of achievement, and relief for one. 

A little more plodding, and the end is within reach,

completing this milestone, will to me a lot teach.

I still have nightmares about that aborted mission,

Got bored before the mid point, couldn't sustain the vision.

Exhausted a bit, and also became disinterested,

Should have continued the sojourn, post getting rested.  

One third of the path, though is still untrod,

Don't know what obstacles will come down the road. 

Will I be able to sustain the momentum, keep the ball rolling,

And have the same zeal and energy, when in the last overs bowling.

I have managed to write for 60 days straight, knowing you read me sometimes, someplace,

You still care for my writing and for myself, though you may deny it on my face!

Punished For Being Outspoken

Express dissent, and be prepared to be harassed, 

Shunned by your fraternity, labeled rebel and outcast.

They'll demolish your office, while you are still in mid flight,

And claim 'Ukhad diya' brazenly, making of your suffering light.

 

Investigate misdeeds, and they will go after you,

Frame you in fake cases, against you venom spew.

Put you behind bars, after reopening old cases,

Defame you, summon you daily, without any basis.

 

Share a cartoon, and they will break your jaw, 

File cases against you, for breaking cyber law.

Nobody comes forward, claiming its retaliatory, 

No one has sympathies for the marked quarry. 

But you dare raid for tax evasion, and all hell breaks loose,

How dare you touch our demigods, they are as sacred as Zeus.

Uninvited

The team goes out for lunch, and sits in a group,

Talking in hushed voices, with shoulders that droop.  

Suddenly there is total silence, as if a predator is near,

The manager joined the table, what do we now talk O dear!

The meeting has ended, the manager has left,

All have started chatting, about this and that.

Uncomfortable silence falls, as he rejoins the link,

The whole atmosphere changed, in the time of a wink.

WhatsApp group created, to indulge in water cooler bitching,

Gossip is necessary, without it our tongues are twitching.

The manager gets a whiff, and somehow joins the group, 

The plan has fallen apart, now he has to be kept in the loop.

 

Team, I gave you all the freedom, that I'm afraid you have misused,

I feel excluded and hurt, and am disappointed that my trust you abused. 

The Mutating Week

Monday morning, meetings aplenty,

Missing the weekend, feeling senti, 

Status updates, and plans for the week,

Monday is for brave hearts, not for the meek.

Tuesday afternoon, best time to work,

No interruptions, in the shadows lurk.

Working on, whats important, not urgent, 

For focused productivity, Tuesdays are god sent. 

Friday evening, let your hair down,

Enjoy the weekend, be the talk of the town.

Have unlimited fun, or the anticipation of it,

Recover and rejuvenate, for your health do your bit.

The weeks go by and so will the years,

How you structure your weeks- I'm all ears.

The Society

Preside over meetings, pull ones weight,

Decide important matters, including AGM date. 

Grant permissions like, to move in and move out,

The chairman is the final authority, have no doubt. 

Convene meetings, record the minutes,

Ensure attendance at AGM is not in single digits.

Take care of the day to day errands, be the silent workhorse, 

The secretary keeps things flowing, smoothly and on course.

Approve bills, make payments, 

In the AGM, present audit statements. 

Do the accounting, ensure receipts are there,

The treasurer ensures viability, and that accounts are fair.

I have been in all these roles, and with best of the best did hobnob,

Now I just want to be a member, no more working in a thankless job.

Real Qualities

Can you withstand this, are you really strong? 

Can you accept, however grudgingly, that you were once wrong?

Strength does not lie in putting up, a facade that is hard and upright,

If you're really strong you'll acknowledge, on occasions you were not right.

Can you take this to closure, do you have what it takes?

Can you deliver on every day, not just when there are high stakes?

Endurance does not lie in exhausting, all your resources and drive,

You take rest, pace your innings, for consistent results you strive.

Can you act in an ethical way, do you know what is right?

Can you behave when nobody is looking, avoid transgressions with all your might?

Character does not lie in fighting, battles that are big and bold,

It is visible in everyday actions- how you treat the sick and the old.

Sometimes what looks good on the surface, when you dig out comes the rot,

Don't hide your qualities in a vulnerable shell, have courage, stand out from the lot.

Performance Appraisal

It was tempting to give, a below average rating,

I'm not satisfied, my criticism's are scathing.

You can do so more, if you get organized a bit, 

Maybe a harsh message, will make you show grit. 

It was better to give, an above average rating, 

High expectations motivate- performance wont be gating.

You will stretch out more, use your strengths to the hilt, 

And by rewarding for potential, I wont feel guilt. 

It was convenient to give, an average rating, 

One could delay the raise, for the promotion keep you waiting. 

Little need to justify, the lackluster performance,

Some pressure to fit you, to the bell jar conformance.

I'd rather give timely feedback, than a rating that sticks,

And a generous (p)raise, that gives you in-the-pants kicks.

Writing A Blog

Content is king, but without audience its mute,

We need to drive traffic, lets go down SEO route.

The blogs you write may be as good as gold,

Keep churning new ones, don't rely on old. 

Be spontaneous at your risk, speak to an empty room,

Incorporate trending words, and your traffic will go boom.

Don't tailor your content, for humans to read and trawl,

Make sure the algorithm, and the search engine can crawl.

 

Context is queen, figure out who your audiences are,

If they want trash writing, just lower your bar. 

At all costs make sure, they get what they came for,

Leave a good engagement metrics, keep coming back for more.

You started with a vision, of what your messaging was going to be,

And ended up losing your soul and contorting as per what they want to see.

Small Things

A small win here, a slight praise there, 

Enough to keep, at bay despair.

When you're stuck in a place, that's totally dark,

All you need is a candle, providing contrast stark.   

A faint smile here, a light touch there,

Enough to feel, someone does care. 

When you're floating in a sea, that's endless and vast, 

All you need is an island, to keep swimming fast.

A single 'like' here, a heartfelt 'comment' there,

Enough to feel you belong, that life is fair.

When you keep on writing sonnets, that nobody reads,

All you need is a 'share' to go viral, and fulfill your needs.

 

A small act of kindness, can really make ones' day,

You never know what they are going through, what pain have they.

 

Bugs

Let bygones be bygones, lets start afresh,

The software is buggy, lets start from scratch.

Back to the drawing board, apprehensions galore,

When we scrap the design - there will be bugs no more.

Expect the best, the future looks bright,

Changing a line of code can make it right.

With every small change, comes a risk and fear,

It may work as hell, or crash, oh! dear!.

Focus on the now, enjoy the present, 

The stack trace left behind, is purely god sent.

Problem solved for now, may in future recur,

we will cross the bridge, when the rivers occur.

Groping in the dark, or merely overhauling the code,

Can fix issues in the small run, but wont work well down the road.

Firing Dilemma

Performance of the employee, not upto the mark,

No scope for improvement, the future looks dark.

Lack of common sense, combined with lack of ability,

For business to thrive, one has to decide with agility.

 

Attitude of the employee, leaves much to desire,

No zeal or enthusiasm, it's difficult to light a fire.

Not working well with others, lacking sense of ownership,

For business to survive, someone needs to get off the ship

Ethics of the employee, under a dark scanner,

Using dubious means, acting in a devious manner.

Adept at backstabbing, versed in organizational politics,

For business to heal and grow, this cancer you need to nix.

I can fix the IQ and EQ part, and get you back on the progress path,

But if you lack Moral Quotient, only God can save you from my wrath.

Postponed

Covid 19 spreading, surges in case,

Exams approaching, in a few days. 

Pleas of parents, to do in online mode,

Fall on deaf ears - doesn't well bode.

Mails after mails, hoping for sanity to prevail,

School insisting on offline, so their schedule doesn't derail. 

The government issues directives, to close schools for some time,

The school postponing the 'offline' exams, without reason or rhyme. 

The ward is happy, that the exams got postponed,

The spouse is irked, one more week for ward to goad.

I am relieved, don't need to pick and drop this week,

Nobody cares for the students learning, or that corona is at peak.

We fought hard as a parent group, to expose the fallacy of an offline exam,

Postponed, in lieu of conducting online, a snub to us, can we still remain calm?

Murphy's Law

Showing demo, of the app,

To the investor- funding next step.

Not once in a 100 trials, had the app hung,

On this occasion though, it left me tied tongue.

 

Rolling out solution, to the first client, 

Mails and SMS not delivering, playing defiant.

In internal rollout it went smooth, there's nothing to hide

But on client side not working  -  all in a day's stride.

Presenting the prototype, to the boss,

Bugs by the dozen- leading to face loss. 

Never in the testing, an error showed up,

But now the idea is rejected , and my time's up.

 

I'm sure you know the Murphy's law, and will excuse me as such,

Why things don't work, when they are needed the most, I don't know much!

Reading Books

Gems hidden, in plain sight,

I read books, with all my might.

Hoping to learn, a few new things,

Reading to me, knowledge brings. 

Critiquing ideas, having my say,

I review books, so that I may,

Separate the wheat from the chaff,

The erudite scholar from riff-Raff.  

Daily reading, target set, 

Tracking goals, I've not reached yet.

I'm driven to finish a book a week,

Compulsively hooked to my reading streak.

I've all but forgotten, what its like, to read for mere pleasure,

Reading to me has become a chore, and not what it used to be - for leisure!

Do Not Disturb

Discretion desired, intimacy craved,

Resting in a hotel room, with eyes that are glazed.

Retreating from the world, putting a sign upfront,

Do Not Disturb is my message, about which I'm blunt.

Notifications galore, to focus is the need,

Need to stop scrolling, through the social media feed. 

Putting dark mode on, activating with one touch,

Do Not Disturb is the mode, that to me means much.

 

Irrelevant calls avoided, marketing scorned, 

Need to avoid tricksters, that can leave me conned.

Cutting off in mid-way, keeping the spam callers at bay,

Activating DND services, blocking calls will work, I pray!

They say I have an open door policy, that I am as approachable as anyone,

Can't you see I am a bit disturbed for now, do I have to put up a sign, for one?

Halfway Mark

Halfway through, the energy sags,

Emotions swell but the writing lags. 

Unsure what I've got, at the half way mark,

The road ahead bleak, and equally dark.

At the start it was dark, I'm still finding my way,

To continue down the path, I've little, to no, say.

Its set in stone, the 90 sonnets sprint,

Doesn't matter my heart is frozen, or blooming like spring.

I had pictured on this milestone, I would celebrate and rest,

Feel no compulsion to pen a sonnet, brush off the sprint in jest.

But now that I'm here, all I think of is completing this mission, 

Can I start questioning what's the purpose, with your permission?

45 days of daily wooing, still I've failed to catch your eyes,

45 more days I'm ready to woo, after that it would be only goodbyes.

Tender and Raw

Made of glass, fragile to hold,

Emotions swelling up, in an exterior that's cold.

Touch with caution, or you'll setup some flare, 

I'm a gift wrapped in a box, marked handle with care. 

Overtly hard, but inside tender,

You'll breach my insides, the chances are slender.

Breach with caution, lest salty water flows,

I'm a coconut that's obtuse, like a sheep in wolf's clothes.

The shell is hard, but the inner core soft,

Withdrawn and cautious, you'll find me oft.

Approach with caution, or you'll make me retreat,

I'm a turtle wanting to be petted, eagerly waiting for a treat. 

I know I've put a distance, between me and you,

I'm afraid if I let you closer, you may end up hurting too.

My Case

Hear me out darling, give me a chance,

If not soul mates, can we be friends perchance?

Soul mates is a myth, there are few knights in shining armor,

Waiting for damsels in distress- is as illusory as a snake charmer! 

Let me be near you, make me part of your world,

Let it be platonic, I wont insist, I give you my word.

Don't push me away, or go hide in a shell,

Do you really think sans me, your life would be swell?

I respect your wishes, be a bit sensitive to mine too,

You say I scare you, that I should not follow you,

I can swear your absence, makes me sick and blue,

Believe me when I say, my love for you is true.

Without you in my life, life would undoubtedly go for a toss,

You may reject me all you want, but I'm sure, it would be equally your loss.

Valentine Day

Some on the prowl, some on the chase,

Some feel lonely, on Valentine's days.

Each day of the week, mocks them afresh, 

As they put aside undelivered, flowers fresh.

Hug day comes, and ends without a caress,

On the rose day the color, would be yellow who would guess?

The kiss day ends, with a flying kiss from afar,

To cuddle with your teddy, on a day seems bizarre.

Promise day and Propose day, make you finally commit,

Even before you are ready, your destiny is writ. 

Chocolate day melts, leaving behind a dark taste,

Trying to catch her eye, the whole week has gone waste.

You may say that Valentine's day, is just a harmless fad,

But to the one whose love is unrequited, its a bit too sad.

Hiring

Resume shortlisted, interview done,

Moving to next stage - in fate of some. 

Rest asked to go home - sharpen their skills,

Apply again next year - go through the drills. 

 

Interview cleared, negotiations done, 

Final offer and joining - in fate of some.

Rest try to steal a deal, at the firm they work,

By the virtue of offer letter, get a raise and smirk.

Change in business, freezing done,

To be put on hold - in fate of some.

Rest get impatient - move to other jobs,

Others hope against hope - end up with sobs.

Hiring is hellish for who seeks the job, and for the people on the other end too,

Rejecting someone, or putting on hold, slowly hollows and eats up you.

Stressed

I'm stressed, and I know it, and that's not a good thing, 

Too busy to care for self, can't straightforwardly think.

My philosophy and aim, was to live a balanced life,

But I'm stuck with a life, in which troubles are rife.

I was earlier stressed too, but then ignorance was bliss,

I couldn't focus well, but that part I didn't quite miss.

It might have affected my health, and brought down my immunity,

But I never thought I was any different- stressed like all in the community.

Then there are those who think they are stressed, but life is going smoothly,

The only trouble a meeting with the boss, that too weekly or monthly.

Rest of the time the stress they have, is of not having high productivity,

Too much free time at their hand, stressed by life's apparent simplicity.

I love the adrenaline rush of stress, and how it raises the bar for me,

But now that I'm aware of how bad it is, I can't but it as an evil see. 

 

The Counseling Session

Flurry of meetings lined up, taking charge in some,

Conceding ground in others, feeling somewhat lonesome.

The counselor was insisting, for an appointment to book,

Not possible this Saturday, I'm too busy, pray look.

 

I brush off the fleeting thought, that I need some rest, 

Focused squarely on the fact, how I can deliver my best.

The counselor had suggested, that you can cut some slack,

And gently inquired, whether for next session I'll be back? 

When we shared that space, I felt understood and heard,

Felt different from the pack, no longer part of the herd.

The counselor requested at end, to fill a feedback form, 

Should I hurriedly give a rating, I was somewhat torn?

The best part of the session -  I could carve some time for me,

Park my issues for a moment, and just relax and be!

Why I'll koo?

On the one hand is a platform, that's evolving- not yet stable,

Whose only claim to fame, as of now, is the Made in India label. 

On the other hand is a platform, going easy on attempts to secession,

To tweet or to koo in such a scenario, is a million dollar question. 

I'm hardly an 'influencer', not a verified account holder,

Blue tick or one that's saffron, I'll likely be bystander.

My audience has been limited, mostly those who love psychology,

Largely international in its composition, not bounded by geology.

 

To tweet is good, but to koo is better,

in case you make a typo, you can edit it later.

Inbuilt voice message, and to top it video too,

A community that is welcoming, too good to be true.

 

I'm willing to lose my audience, and move to a new platform,

In Twitter I found my original voice, on Koo I'm willing to be part of the swarm.

 

Castles

I'll hold you one day, will make you mine,

We'll live happily after - my heart does pine.

No fights, no troubles, like lions living in the lair,

I keep dreaming about it - building castles in the air.

 

We tied the knot together, and now we live in fear,

Some quake will turn it upside down- the world we hold dear.

Each quivering feels like a tremor, a hurricane each small wave,

Built makeshift on the sandy beach, this little castle can we save?

 

I've got tired of the game, and around me built a wall,

Searching for a refuge, on a mountain that's tall,

Attacking the other, locked in a meaningless fight,

Retreating to my stone castle, at the slightest slight. 

Whether of air or stone, these castles kept me jailed,

 I'm finally free now, that out of my life you bailed.

The Startup Journey

I started with a vision, that haunts me still,

The time was opportune, so I went for the kill,

I'm investing so heavily, I've but all run dry,

With so many looking up, I can't even cry.

I started with a team, that I assembled with care,

Helped each other when needed, life was fun and fair.

Now extracting every ounce, that's worth its weight,

Have to keep the flock together, and avoid restructuring fate.

I started with a task, that gave me meaning and pride,

Making progress each day, working was a joyride.

Giving it all I have, I'm now exhausted to the brink,

Burnt out, not knowing, what the future will bring.

Owner, manager, employee, the startup journey is no cake walk,

You are bleeding resources by the day, and time is running by the clock. 

Love Variants

When you are not with me, I constantly think of you,

Giddy in your presence, I feel vulnerable, its true,

Like a craving of an addict, I long for you night and day,

But afraid of being rejected, I desist from entering the fray.

When you are not by my side, I can still rely on you,

I know you'll be there, when I feel lost and blue,

Adored and accepted, I cherish the close bond we share,

Secure in your arms, I know and trust that you care.

 

When you are not feeling cared, I step in and tend to you, 

I sacrifice my needs for yours -  my needs are but few.

Hoping to help you grow, and become the best you can,

Patiently supporting you, so you can develop as per plan.  

Romantic, attached or nurturant, you may call it what you like,

It causes my heart to miss a few beats, and witness a massive spike.

Never Finishing

I'm an opener, not a finisher, this has been etched on my mind,

I struggle in the middle overs, please be patient, and a little kind.

I usually start off with a flourish, but seldom I manage to end in style,

Sometimes I hit a century, but match winner is not in my profile.

 

I can make an entrance with a splash, and depart with a sheepish grin, 

I can start a song on a high note, and as the chorus starts, get lost in the din. 

Why to finish is so important, is a question I have often asked myself,

Isn't it OK to start a million threads, and leave them hanging by the shelf?

You may say that I lack discipline, you may say that I lack grit,

I am a person on whose fate, starting many things is writ.

When someone plants a seed, one hardly thinks of fruits, 

I take pleasure in that starting, and nurturing solid roots.

Isn't it enough that I take initiative, must I always be closing too?

Maybe you'll end this sonnet for me, maybe you'll say I love ___ ?

Tired And Weary

The middle is the sag, that no one notices or cares,

Most wise men retreat, only the fool persists and dares.

One step after the other, purely from habit and drill,

Oblivious to the dreariness, that could easily kill.

I've traveled ahead so far, no point in backtracking now,

Let me take that step, keep moving forward anyhow.

There is little joy left in voyage, the end still beyond reach,

I cant even turn around, fearing my promise will breach.

Can I rest for a while, maybe skip traveling for a day,

What if that becomes a habit, I fall in love where I stay?

Cant afford to be complacent, or let me off the hook,

Have to meet my daily target, have to go by the book.

What started as a passion, has now become a daily chore,

And you've started laughing on me- Oh! what a drag, what a bore!

Language Nazis

Don't call it work-life balance, lets call it work-life harmony,

We've used work-life integration before, on that I'll not bet my money.

You may call it what you like, but the primary focus is work,

And only secondarily in the shadows, will life really lurk. 

Don't call it a mental disorder, lets call it a mental health concern,

The medical model faltered us, now let it be psycho-socials turn.

On mercy of genes or environment, there is not much we can do,

Apart from labeling one way or the other, and prejudicing the way we view. 

Don't call it an addiction, lets call it a substance use disorder,

We've tried calling it dependency, all in an effort to get a restraint order.

No matter what you call, under the bravado, one is alone and at loss,

You can put in a rehab, and get one sober, but life goes on for a toss.

 

Using the correct language, may not be the deal its made out to be, 

When we are changing words so often, aren't we running away from the underlying reality?

Money And Happiness

How can we lead a happy life, asked a curious guy,

New research suggests that after all, money can happiness buy.

The more you earn, the happier you are, even beyond baseline,

The easiest route is via money, shouldn't coveting it be fine?

There are things that money can buy, maybe how good you feel each day,

How smug you feel when comparing with others, and what other people say. 

There is happiness that lies beyond this, where people grow and thrive,

Tap into their unique potential, self actualize, not just survive.

A sense of purpose is happiness, and so is feeling in charge,

Making choices is happiness, and so is growing at large.

I choose to write a sonnet, than code to earn some bread,

Feeling happy that I'm getting better, not caring whether they are read.

They say you can be strong and resilient, as long as you have some reason, a Why,

I say you can be happy and carefree, as long as to lure of money you can say bye.

Nation First?

We are a divided nation, let there be no doubt,

The fissures run deep, from north to south.

What geographies couldn't do, Social Media has done,

We'll keep trolling each other, no hope of living as one. 

The political opinions, that one kept secret and hidden,

Are now worn on our sleeves, you're either with Trump or Biden.

A neutral, or issue based support, one can just not visualize,

let's create memes, troll the other, spread fake news and lies. 

 

There are good folks on that side, but we will focus on the blind bhakts,

There are reasonable folks this side, but we will focus on the dynasts and their takhts.

There are vultures lurking in the north west, who want to spread hatred leading to strife,

'Civil' movements, 'grassroots' upheavals, 'Farmers' agitation, we've seen it all- took all in stride.

I know you'll hate me for saying this, but being anti-govt, for its own sake, is worst,

Hate a party, dislike its leaders, but for gods sake, stand behind your nation first.

Getting Motivated

Don't want to study, but am afraid that Dad will hurt,

Finally pick up the book, anxious not to bring family name to dirt.

Recognizing that studying is important, else I will surely fail, 

I'm a student who studies daily, wont drown, but sail.   

Don't want to study, unless Dad buys me that new game,

Finally pick up the book, proud that soon I'll be rich- have fame.

Recognizing that studying is important, that's the way I learn,

I'm a student who studies daily, so that I can one day earn.

 

Not all subjects need coercing, some need neither carrot nor stick,

They are naturally alluring, they don't make me puke or sick.

If I could choose what to study, and develop my skills at that,

If someone could tell me how it will help, I would get 100 % flat. 

 

They say I'm not motivated enough, to study all the time,

I say you don't know what moves me enough, and that's why I don't give a dime.

The Cycle of Life

Learn a lot, play all day,

Remain sheltered in this world, is all we say.

Pushed out of the nest, now for yourself fend, 

An era of innocence comes to an end. 

Support your family, work all day,

Take risks if needed, but bring steady pay.

Your prime is over, now to the forests descend,

An era of responsibility comes to an end.

Enjoy old age, rest all day,

Your health remains good, is all we pray.

Let your suffering be over, now to the heavens ascend,

An era of dependence comes to an end.

This cycle of life, will repeat for each of us,

That we get reincarnated is the only plus. 

Dancing And Singing

Some words flow out naturally, some need to be pushed and forced,

Sometimes I'm in the mood for poetry, other times I have to be coerced.

The feelings sometimes are strong enough, they won't just subside or hide,

On other times I rely on my craft, taking readers for a ride.

 

Some movements grace her naturally, some are awkward and fall flat,  

At times she dances consciously, at other times she's a nimble cat. 

The energy bursting forth in her, has to find an outlet in dance,

Even when she's sad and crying, she likes to smile and feign romance.

Some songs get stuck as an ear-worm, for some you develop taste,

Sometimes you like to hum a tune, other times singing seems like a waste.

Not able to rein in your happiness, you burst out in a song,

On other times, the melody haunts, the song goes on for too long.

My poems are a bit mischievous, painting a picture of idyllic romance,

At the end you are left wondering, what was this about, why this song and dance?

Branded

I belong to an elite and select group, an alumnus of a famous Insti, 

My claim to fame that with flying colors, I passed an exam called JEE. 

That event happened in a distant past, a quarter century ago,

I might have changed a million fold, that tag will never go. 

I don't mind the tag, cause its a brand in itself!

And though I've moved streams, it still defines myself,

- An assurance that the product, you are being marketed and sold, 

Is of high quality and can be trusted-  was once 24 carats gold.

Not everyone though, who was branded is the same,

Some did a Masters, some an LDP- how lame! 

All animals are equal, but some more equal than others,

let's have a caste system within us, dear Alumni brothers!

Pedigree doesn't make you elite, how you encash it does,

I've overgrown it, but also realized- the name IITian can cause a buzz!

Acting Sane

Not feeling alive or well, I've got to make a confession,

This is beyond a sad mood, I'm slowly slipping into depression.

What earlier used to charm, has turned meaningless and pale,

A dreadful feeling hounds me, even before starting I know I'll fail.

 

Nothing seems beyond reach, the stars are up for plucking,

My thoughts have no limits to them, they keep popping and coming,

In this manic state I'm charged with, I'm all geared to move and act,

The world is vivid and my oyster, I need no luck or charm or tact.

Having got rid of the extremes, I'm now somewhat numbed,

My energy doesn't fluctuate or sag, my thoughts haven't jumped.

In this normal state of remission, I can finally savor life,

And carve for me a humdrum existence, sans excitement, sans strife!

Do I have to lead a normal life, can't I let my hair down, be insane?

I care about you my darling a lot, so for your sake I'll end up acting sane.

Another Letdown?

Don't promise me the moon, on a new moon's night,

taking advantage of the darkness- nowhere a flicker of light,

Suddenly appears a tower, a beacon of hope,

Shall I place my trust in you, and give you a long rope?

 

I'd rather live in darkness, than be showed false dreams,

I've lend you my voice, made you a conduit for my screams, 

Your power comes form me- and we, who stand for whats right,

Don't use it to settle personal scores, or to make your future bright.

You had started with good intentions, greatness thrust on you, 

If you end up like other scumbags, all will leave, but few,

You've wielded power till now, but in a different domain, 

Will this really be a grassroots movement, questions remain.

Nationalistic Collective is the need of the hour, hope in a few years it doesn't go bad, 

Riding on top of the anti-corruption movement, how Aam Aadmi Party proved to be a fad.

26th January

We watched from distance, as the siege took place, 

Capitol Hill broken in, America losing its face,

The more adventurous amongst us, even created memes, 

How in India you need militant training, to attack and lay siege. 

 

Labeling US a Do-It-Yourself heaven, where local goons beak rules,

We thumped our chests, learn from the largest democracy, O fools, 

Learn form us how to transition power, without blood and gore,

Some may hate our PM equally, but will democratically show door.

What happened today shocked, but was building for some time,

A few unscrupulous elements waiting, for long to commit this crime, 

To do something that tarnishes, our image in the world at large,

What CAA protests couldn't do, today 'farmers' have done at last! 

 

You can celebrate for a while, you have won, systematically spewing venom and hate,

The debacle at Red Fort casting its shadow, on the spectacle we witnessed at India Gate.

Different Lives, Different Fates

The heavier my heart, the faster I burn,

Exhausting my fuel, emptying my urn,

I go down in style, an exploding supernova,

After a million years of life, now in a Black Hole coma.

 

I'm average to the core, I'm the humble one,

My flame burns steadily, I'm the master of fusion,

I'll become a red giant- slowly shedding my outer layers,

becoming dwarfed and white, give or take a billion years. 

 

I know my place, I'm the smallest of all,

I can show endurance, let me show some gall,

I can burn so slowly, exceed the age of universe,

Burn red, be dwarfed, but live a 100 billion years.  

 

You may be average, but you are special to me, a white dwarf that will never get sullied or black,

When you are dying I'll lend you my heart's pieces, so go explode to disappear- don't remain back.

A Tech Free Day

Dad, lets have a laptop free day,

Let me buy one of your workdays, if I may?

Nowadays you are always hunched on your desk,

Those memories are fading- when we played with zest.

 

Mom, lets have a mobile free day,

You don't need to learn recipes, your cooking's good, I say,

Scrolling though the news-feed, or engaged in a call,

The mother who used to learn with me, I barely recall.

Brother, lets have a tab free day,

You don't need to be distracted, we can instead play,

Lets play- no video games, we have to reduce screen time,

Lets return to the pristine old times, when sans gadgets we were fine.

 

Son, I believe what you are asking for, is an internet free day,

Last time that happened was when post fighting we sulked, that doesn't repeat, let us pray.  

The Departed

I know you'll die earlier, she said with tenderness, 

Its not fair I'm younger, and would miss your warm caress.

Puzzled by my lifestyle, worried about my health, she had every reason to crib,

From now onward, I'll take care of myself, I would lie through my teeth and be glib.

Chronic diseases are not my fault, triggered by situations, and partly by genes,

Lets make use of the little time that's left, and paint together bright and vivid scenes. 

We have loads of memories of happy times, and loads we can create anew, 

I wont mind if it is the very last one, but lets not stop creating chapters new.

I'm not afraid of death, she calmly said,  as long as the dying person is me,

But to see of myself as a widowed person, how can I allow that to be?

Once you are gone, I'll be robbed of all, to smile would be a crime,

Without you by my side, the societal restrictions, wont really matter a dime!

 

I know I've left you hanging and departed a bit prematurely,

The saving grace - you are being so strong and acting so maturely.

Boycott Politics

Hurting of sentiments, can lead to riots,

You can boycott a series, you can exercise your rights,

If you don't like something, why clamor for its ban?

Relegate it to the dusts of history, let it be also ran.

 

Posting a nasty message, can lead to siege,

Better ban the account, he's no longer part of the league.

Let him be dislocated from every social media account,

Lets ensure no one reads him, that his views don't count.

What is good for the goose should be good for the gander,

If a provocative series allowed, why ban a man- its pure slander,

Both have the power, to pollute, millions of minds,

And we have equal power, to ignore them, and their kinds. 

Freedom of expression my foot! We allow web-series and ban men?

Lets be cautious in granting too much power, to organized giants and their henchmen.

The Guest

Eagerly waiting, at the arrival terminal,

Asking the nth time, from the airline personnel,  

What time the flight arrives- I've waited for long,

As you arrive, with your baggage, I break into a song.

Waiting with patience, for you to make a move,

You've overstayed your visit- settled in a groove.

If the moment lasts a little, the memories are sweet,

Now I'm pining for when you'll leave, to never again meet.

 

Alas, the time has come, for you to say bye,

The days have flown so fast, I will not lie,

My heart is heavy as its time for you to fly,

Living sans you will be painful, I'd rather die.

I've courted you in my dreams, lived for years with your imaginary presence, 

Buried you deep in my subconscious, so waking feels surreal, and doesn't make sense. 

Fermentation

Feeling overwhelmed, cuddling my bundle of joy,

Excited and eager, to start playing with my little toy,

Cautious equal parts, suddenly feeling grown-up, 

Its a sugary sweet moment that makes dream stuff.

Confused and ambivalent, as he decides to move,

Saddened by his behavior, what does he want to prove?

Dreading the empty nest, starting to already feel old,

Reining in the tears rolling down the cheek, leaving a trail of salt.

Sacrificed all my earnings, even took a loan,

Dependent on him for survival- why do I now moan?

He has a family and a new child, and is excited as well,

On the verge of dying lonely, why am I bitter as hell?

It started on a firm footing, with tender love and more,

Over time it has become crusty, and turned dark and sour.

High Availability

Eager to take on the world, waiting for my chance,

I regularly check on my mate, throw periodic sideways glance. 

I'm not envious of him at all, its his time in the sun,

But slowly time will take its toll, he'll fail- I would begun.

Dreading the moment, he'll call for my help,

Some heartbeats gone missing, or he uttering a yelp.

An alarm sounded loud, that its now finally showtime,

To take on the responsibility fully - wake up from dream sublime.

 

Equanimous to the fact, that its now my turn,

He has walked a hundred miles, now let me burn,

Its an equal music, we take turns to work,  

But why he's always first, in my mind doubts lurk.    

I don't like to play second fiddle, master-slave makes me puke and die,

Ensuring redundancy is so important, so lets play active active hot standby.

A Sonnet Gone Rogue

What do you call a sonnet, that has turned out sour,

You want her to see in one way, but its not in your power.

It was meant to flatter her, even make her smile and blush,

But she has taken an exception, and sent it flying down the flush.

What do you call a song, that could not be sung,

No time for spouse or kids, busy climbing the rung.

It was a folly to think that from the top you could your heart cry,

And she would decipher it for a paean, and not detest or decry.

What do you call a story, that has never been told,

The courage shown in childhood, can make you plow through when old.

It is the story you sing daily - to soothe yourself to sleep,

Sometimes a hero, sometimes a sidekick, sometimes a wolf as sheep.

What do you call a novel, that is coming to an end,

Instead of mere words this time, let me flowers send! 

My Job

What do you do, asked the stranger,

Embedded in a web- I'm no lone ranger, 

Whats even better, I'm the center of the hub

The world doesn't care- don't on my wounds salt rub.

How do you do, asked the friend,

'Perfect, thanks for asking'- will this ever end?

Will I ever be able to look in her eyes,

and share with vulnerability our silent cries.

What do you do, asked the spouse,

I'm busy all day, can't you see, you louse!

You've colleagues to hang out with, I've friends to bitch,

If you think I'm served a platter, for one day let's switch.

You may think writing sonnets is easy, and staying home an additional perk,

But to find yourself through relationships, is much better than losing oneself in work.

Immunity

The germ of an idea, that I can make you smile, 

Slowly morphed into a conviction that I can make you mine,

The occasional skipping of heart beats, wasn't an everyday affair, 

Over time my heart started pining- alas, life's not fair. 

 

What was tiny in the beginning, has now grown tumorous and huge,

I've to let out the pus daily - that's my poetic refuge.

I should have nipped in the bud, but I was nonchalant at first,

Have let it rot for long, and now its ready to burst.

 

The moment we shared, has remained etched in mind,

Who was host, who parasite, doesn't matter a dime.

 I was burning; on my knees; totally in your control,

The desire to replicate that moment, has taken its toll.

Once bitten, I'm toughened, you can cause me no harm,

I've developed antibodies, I'm resistant to your charm!

The Most Important Trait

One cookie today, or two tomorrow?

Its difficult to wait for the second marshmallow,

Those who show control, and can delay gratification,

They in the life end better, with a high life satisfaction.

Mediocre output now, but brilliance tomorrow,

If you raise your expectations, performance will follow.

Having a positive view of self, and the people you interact with,

Could lead everyone to be a better version, and stretch from hence-with. 

The hare runs fast, but the tortoise can plod, 

Talent may take you so far, but grit is the new god.

Its good to win a sprint, but character is a marathon run, 

passion and perseverance for a goal, is the way its done.

 

Self control or positive expectations, determination or grit,

Unless weaved in a moral framework, can get results that don't matter a bit.

Flying High

Fly high my darling, fly high in the sky,

Soar above your ilk, for the top place vie.

Go to places only heard of, spread your wings and rise,

let my vision not limit you, transcend the ceilings of high-rise.

 

Even while you are up there, I will keep a close watch,

Encouraging you to up your game, to go up by a notch,

At times you may get lax, and drift with the breeze,

But I'll know when to pull you closer, and when to let you glide with ease.

 

They say if you love someone, you should set them free,

Now that you are out by yourself, there is danger in every pole and tree.

As you rise up others will cut you, dismember you, try to snatch,

Or lure you with their counter maneuvers, but to no one must you latch.

 

Tethered to me, you've risen to top, but now you've cut the cord,

I'm running like mad, to catch you again, as you come crashing on the road. 

Job, Career, Calling?

Clocking in the 8 hours, counting the passage of time,

Doesn't matter the work I do, show me the money, its fine.

The job for me is just a means- to put food on the table,

Its a chore, a punishment, a necessity of sorts; a dreary life, no fable.

Finding 80 hour week too little, I squeeze value from each hour,

To climb the ladder of success is my dream, each day I raise the bar.

The career for me is an adrenaline rush, to end at the top of the pile,

Its a status, a perk, an ego of sorts, for which I go the extra mile. 

 

The day hours are just not enough, so it keeps me up at night,

It matters what I do- or don't; I chase goals with all my might.

The calling for me is my raison-d'etre, to serve my only wish,

Its a harmonious passion, a commitment of sorts, the journey pure bliss.

  

Some do it for money, some for fame and power, others are called to write,

Penning a sonnet, sans money or fame, on a daily basis, feels so right!

The Distance Bridged

 

It wasn't romance, it wasn't love, it wasn't even platonic friendship,

I thought we were on solid ground- you in the sanctum sanctorum that I worship.

I could dance and chant, pay my homage to you, that you'd silently accept,

An asymmetric relation, you couldn't reach out, bless me with your eyes except. 

That moment of 'darshan' would be brief but potent,

For a minute, I could sense, my words were not impotent,

My prayer was being heard, my heart beating to your drum,

It was the bit I felt seen - your beneficence washing off my scum. 

 

You were as calm as ever, always firm, centered and strong,

But in that second, something snapped, you couldn't resist me any long, 

Forgetting about the millions, that are destined to come and go,

For that moment I got your eyes - the only one to do so!

 

You may write me off as a one-off, and you may count me as naive and simpleton,

But in your heavenly abode you seemed so far, so I've cunningly put you on a pedestal.

 

 

My Preferred Format

Shorter format, bigger score,

No ambiguity as to what's in store,

20-20 thrills us more,

2 super overs make folk lore.

 

One day format has its place,

Score well first, setup a chase,

The first few overs or the last,

Sit glued, as the fireworks blast.  

Its the Test that tests one's patience still,

Either aficionados- or with time to kill,

With players taking the match to last ball,

not to win or lose, but to draw and stall.

 

You may think of me as fly-by-night, but I have passion that is raw,

I know that I cant win you, so I am playing for a draw.  

 

The Social Dilemma

The desire to remain connected, with friends of past,

Morphed into being validated, by a network that's vast.

Made us Zombies who share mindlessly, in return for comments or likes, 

We made Facebook our natural home, ignoring the depression and anxiety hikes.

The desire to know better, our children and the Gen Y,

Made us experiment and be curious, they were on this platform why?

Sharing photos of food and selfies, scrolling through stories and reels,

We tried to get a hang of Insta, not caring how lonely, it for most folks feels.

 

The desire to be there for them, our parents, long lost uncles and aunts,

Made us bear with all those forwards - the power that 1-click share grants,

The good mornings, the lame jokes, the political vitriol and diatribes, 

We got onto the WhatsApp bandwagon, not minding the poisoning of our tribes.

Enough is enough, I'm transitioning, from WhatsApp via Telegram to Signal

Either mind your ways, or prepare for divorce, our relationship likely to annul. 

Sisyphus

 

 

The night holds special charm for me, I can finally find the time,

To bring to closure acts of day - penning a poem seems so fine.

And on other days I manage to read, a few pages or a tome,

Soothed by this ritual, sacred and dear, the day's weariness is gone.  

The year end appeals to me so much, I can get rid of weathered skin,

Throw out the window, things that didn't work, take trash out of the bin.

And on other times I manage to go, to places far and wide,

return rejuvenated, just in time, to see the turning of the tide.

 

The death bed looks so romantic, I can afford to be just me,  

Know what matters, with whom to spend time, for the first time clearly see.

And in other lives I might just have, you standing by my side,

But for now your memories haunt and heal, now's no place to hide.

 

With each end comes a beginning, a beginning that with time kills,

I prefer those moments of brief respite, between pushing the stone up the hills. 

Incompatible

 A bunch of wires and cables, played around with them all,

To make the right connection, requires efforts - is no feat small.

35 mm jack at one end, the other an RCA male,

Would she be able to hear my beats, my heart starts turning pale.

Just connect the audio out aux, to the inputs of home theater, 

Let all and sundry hear my cries, imaginary audience in the theater.

The magic doesn't happen, I watch the YouTube explainer the nth time,

To be connected to someone, sans heart beating in sync, is a momentous crime.

 

Check the power cables again, amp up a bit, turn up the volume max,

One needs to keep working on it, cant afford to be easy or lax. 

Still no sound only fury, can the speakers have gone rogue,

Silent cometh, silent goeth, from cradle to the morgue. 

I tried my best to hook with you, but no sparks flew down the line,

In the next life, with wireless technology, we will blast a song sublime.

Dependency

Can't move forward, have an external dependency,

Can't write a sonnet, Oh! Muse have some mercy!

Stalled and blocked, it has been a week of dithering,

False oath of daily sonnets- now Furies to me are tethering.  

Would tomorrow be different? Issue finally resolved?

Writing become a second nature, I'm determined and resolved!

With some real progress, I can be proud of being productive,

The sound of a sonnet forming, Oh! its so deadly and seductive! 

Why wait so long for action, why not push the other one hard?

One needs to let the feelings ferment, to write poetry is an art!

One fears push-back, more stalling one's way, so prefers to use tact,

Using simple rhymes to send a note, the poem is almost ready, in fact.

I'm dependent on you darling, and I prefer it that way,

Would you finally make your mind, so that I too may!