Q. Tell us about yourself
I am a sixth form student at Ballakermeen High School whose main passions in life are science and poetry. These may seem like an unlikely match of hobbies but I find that there are lots and intricate ways science lends itself to art and vice versa. I am, for example, fascinated by the origins of life on Earth which evolved to create the diversity of nature we see around us today and I find that this is something I can explore in both disciplines.
Q. How did you first get into poetry?
It started with me reading poems. I had taken out a book full of Shakespeare’s sonnets to read during the first lockdown and quickly became immersed in a desire to write. I wrote Shakespearean sonnets in the beginning because I enjoyed experimenting within the limits of a rigid structure, but then started to liberate myself creatively by playing with my own structures, rhythms and subject matter.
Q. Where do you find inspiration?
I think one of the great qualities of poetry is that through writing poems, we can both celebrate and explore the world around us. For me, I write so that I can better understand my emotions and experiences. I also use poetry as a means of showing my gratitude – that may be towards Manx nature, my Tamil heritage or influential people in my life.
Q. What made you decide to enter the competition?
One of my friends, Aalish, sent me the competition poster and said that I should enter it. I owe a lot to her for convincing me I should give it a shot. I’m also friends with the last Manx Youth Bard, Xander, so he inspired me somewhat.
Q. Why do you think having a Manx Youth Bard is important?
I think having a Manx Youth Bard is really helpful in bridging the gap between the youth and adult poetry. There are a lot of wonderful artists on the island but crucial to the continuation of such creativity is inspiring the next generation of creative thinkers and I think the Youth Bard has a major role in that. I also find that young people have such vivid imaginations and this is something which must be nurtured and given voice. Creative forms such as poetry should be made available and encouraged from any age.
Q. How did you feel when you won?
I was delighted to find out I had won. I must say that the runner-up, Evan, had the most passionate and inspiring poetry – and at such a young age! I feel humbled by such a position and will do my best to live up to the title.
Q. What plans do you have as Manx Youth Bard over the coming year?
My first project is already under way, called ’30 Days for Womankind.’ I came up with the idea in light of recent news surrounding Sarah Everard and it involves writing a feminist poem each day of April in order to raise money for Womankind Worldwide – a charity putting an end to violence against women. I have also gotten friends involved who will create songs, paintings, digital art etc. each day instead.
I would also love to find ways to engage younger people, particularly primary school children, to start writing. I teach English to kids as part of my part-time job so hopefully I can use that experience to teach some poetry – if indeed poetry can be ‘taught’, the only rules are the limits of your imagination!
I look forward to writing and sharing more poetry about the Isle of Man. We have such wonderful history and culture, let alone scenery, and I would love to elaborate on that in my work.
