Q&A: From Chemistry to poetry, Prof Alka Kansra charts her journey

Q) When did you start writing?

I started writing in 2016, right after retiring from my position as the head of the Chemistry department at MCM DAV College in Chandigarh.

Q) How many books have you written so far?

I have written three poetry books, and my fourth book, Sunset Musing, will be launched on March 18th at the Spring Fest organized by CLS.

Q) You have a scientific background as the head of a Chemistry department, so how did you transition to literature?

I think it was a matter of grace. I never thought of writing until my retirement, when I accidentally began writing Hindi poetry. It was a gradual journey, and I eventually joined Abhivyakti, the oldest literary group in the city, founded by Dr. Mehedi Ratna. This group helped me polish my skills, and I found great support from senior members. I gradually started writing articles for newspapers in English and Hindi, as well as for magazines and book reviews. I eventually transitioned to writing English poetry. Although my background is scientific, I’ve always been fond of English and Hindi fiction.

Q) Tell us more about your latest book.

I’ve titled it ‘Sunset Musing.’ It’s about the thoughts that arise during our sunset years, when we start reflecting on life and developing a more optimistic outlook. The ‘sunset’ in the poem isn’t a time of despair but rather an opportunity for rejuvenation.

Sunset Musing. (Express Photo)

Q) Do you think that AI will be a challenge to poetry?

No, I don’t think so. We must move with the times and embrace progress. When digital media emerged, people predicted that newspapers would become obsolete, but we still rely on newspapers for their reliability and authenticity. Similarly, AI may be a shortcut, but it may not be able to express the depth of human emotions found in poetry or other forms of literature. Ultimately, the human brain will find a way to evolve and dominate over technology.

Q) What is the role of poetry in this technologically-driven age?

I think poetry and other finer things in life, such as theatre, literature, and paintings, give meaningful value to our lives. Technology may provide temporary happiness through things like reading jokes on Google, but poetry and other forms of art offer a deeper, more lasting sense of fulfillment. While poetry may evolve, such as with the emergence of digital art, it will survive and continue to play an important role in our lives.