Gossamer Whispers – My first solo poetry collection in print

You’ll find poems that dance between the tangible and the abstract, exploring the alchemy of emotions, the resilience of the human spirit, and the bittersweet nature of memory. From the frosty whispers of winter to the fiery blooms of summer, from the digital realm of modern love to the timeless ache of longing, these poems traverse the landscapes of human experience.

📚✨ Exciting News! 📚✨

I’m thrilled to announce a major milestone in my author journey: the release of my first solo poetry collection 📖 Gossamer Whispers. Available now in both paperback and ebook formats, this book is published by BookLeaf Publishing.

You can find Gossamer Whispers here:
– Paperback: https://amzn.in/d/52Rk7LB
– Ebook: https://lnkd.in/gvN56G_p


Gossamer Whispers is a collection that has been years in the making, born from fleeting moments, vivid dreams, and the quiet contemplation of life’s intricate tapestry. As you turn these pages, you’ll find pieces of my soul scattered like delicate cobwebs across the verses—fragile, yet holding fast to the corners of existence.

I’ve always been fascinated by the power of scent to evoke memories, how starlight can ignite our imagination, and how the simplest moments can carry the weight of eternity. In this collection, I’ve attempted to capture these ephemeral experiences, to bottle them in words as one might capture fireflies on a warm summer night.

You’ll find poems that dance between the tangible and the abstract, exploring the alchemy of emotions, the resilience of the human spirit, and the bittersweet nature of memory. From the frosty whispers of winter to the fiery blooms of summer, from the digital realm of modern love to the timeless ache of longing, these poems traverse the landscapes of human experience.

Pick up your copy today to read more and join this journey with me. 

– Paperback: https://amzn.in/d/52Rk7LB
– Ebook: https://lnkd.in/gvN56G_p


Early reader impressions

I received the book in mint condition. The book is very thin so you might think that you can binge on it and move on to the next book but as you start reading Aneesha’s poetry you realise that it’s written with so many layers of deep thoughts that comes from the mind and the heart. It makes you wonder, ponder. It’s a slow read meaning that you need to read each poem with patience because every word used has been chosen with so much thought that it lingers long after you have finished reading it. Luminescence is one of my favourites from the collection.

“Gossamer Whispers ” is a delightfully engaging compilation of poems. The title of the collection itself indicates how effortlessly the poet leads the reader into the realms of her inner world which means much to her. The images and metaphors used are apt and bring forth meticulously the ideas she desires to portray. The poems point towards her love for nature as she takes utmost care to portray with precision certain minute details. Childhood memories occupy her repeatedly. A major attraction in these poems is the display of a wide array of colors as if she is using her pen as a brush to paint an exquisitely charming picture. Sensuousness adds lustre to her thoughts.

What a beautiful collection of thoughts! Loved the progression from thinking about nature to our daily routine to life-altering decisions.

“Gossamer Whispers” by Aneesha Shewani is a scintillating as well as an engrossing collection of selected poems. Each poem is so captivating that one stops only after ruminating through the whole. The poems encase a wide variety of themes projeceted through remarkable poetic devices. The use of free verse is perfect with Eliotine touch while images, symbols and metaphors abound in every page.A refreshing device is Transferred Epithet which adds to the charm of the poems. Most of the pieces proclaim nostalgia and a sense of loss which, however, provides universality and post mordenism to the collection: lt is indeed a truthful reflection of the contemporary life. Still there are refreshing and sanguine poems like ‘ Summer in Waiting’ and ‘Summer’. Nature abounds in the entire Collection with Adjectival perfection and several nuances of meaning. The Collection is worth preserving to be read again and again.

The Fantastic Other and my continued association with the brilliant masthead

The Fantastic Other is open for Submissions: Poetry, Fiction, Flash Fiction, and Art! The deadline to submit for this issue is July 14th at 11:59 PM EST.

It’s never too late for an exciting update!

Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to volunteer as a beta reader for The Fantastic Other (TFO)—an online magazine that celebrates all things speculative, from fantasy and sci-fi to magical realism and the paranormal. Through my association with TFO, I delved into some of the most captivating and innovative works by talented writers and artists. Earlier this year, I was thrilled to be part of their team as we shortlisted winners for the Winter 2024 Flash Fiction Contest!

As I got to know the brilliant art and literature enthusiasts—Grace, Flora, and Amy—I realized that this was more than just volunteering. It was an opportunity to learn about running an online creative journal that brings together a vibrant community of artists and writers.

And when they invited me to join TFO as an Assistant Editor, there was no looking back! It’s my chance to champion indie writers and artists, collaborate with an inspiring team, and keep growing in this dynamic space.

My weekends are abuzz as I dive into amazing submissions for the upcoming issue. Each story is a revelation, and every poem is an insightful journey. The TFO team’s dedication to curating exceptional content for eager readers is truly fulfilling.

I’m proud to share this pro bono association with TFO and thrilled to feature on their Masthead.


@FantasticOther
11:25 PM · Jun 3, 2024

We are proud to announce that Aneesha Shewani is joining our team as an Assistant Editor.

Our little mag has been getting a growth spurt this past year, so her expertise and experience will help us to keep things fantastic, with much more to come!


The Fantastic Other is open for submissions.

We are currently reading for our Summer 2024 issue. The deadline to submit for this issue is July 14th at 11:59 PM EST.

Read the Guidelines and join this fabulous “place for the discussion of dreams, the analyses of fantasies, the prodding of popular larks.”


Blue Pen Strokes of April: Exploring Tanka Poetry for NaPoWriMo 2024

In 2023, I successfully participated in NaPoWriMo by writing verses inspired by book covers. You can view the collection of 30 verses in the category: Making Verse – NaPoWriM2023. Throughout April 2024, I invite you to join me on this poetic voyage. Together, we’ll traverse boundless landscapes, celebrating the beauty of language, expression, and creativity—one Tanka at a time.

Japanese scroll depicting Tanka poetry

April marks the arrival of National Poetry Writing Month or NaPoWriMo, where poets worldwide unite in the spirit of creativity and expression, “excited about the prospect of writing 30 poems in 30 days.” This year, I have chosen to explore the world of Tanka poetry and paint the canvas of April with the vivid hues of Tanka verse.

Characteristics of Tanka poetry

Tanka, a classical Japanese form closely related to haiku, weaves its magic through five lines. Its syllable pattern—5-7-5-7-7—creates a rhythmic dance of words. Yet, beyond mere structure, Tanka embodies several key characteristics that enrich its poetic essence.

  1. Syllable pattern: Tanka follows a predefined syllable pattern of 5-7-5-7-7.
  2. Themes: Tanka explores a wide spectrum of themes, from nature’s ephemeral beauty to the intricate tapestry of human emotions. Each verse evokes a specific mood or sentiment.
  3. Seasonal Imagery: Like haiku, Tanka embraces kigo—seasonal words or images. These transport readers into the heart of nature’s ever-changing landscape, where cherry blossoms bloom and snowflakes fall.
  4. Emotion: Within Tanka’s concise form, emotions flow freely. Longing, nostalgia, love, and melancholy find their voice, condensed yet potent.
  5. Pivot Line: The third line—the “pivot line” or “turning line”—acts as a bridge. It infuses the poem with nuanced depth, shifting our perspective like a sudden gust of wind.
  6. Symbolism and Metaphor: Tanka thrives on layers of meaning. Each word becomes a brushstroke, painting vivid scenes within its limited canvas.
  7. Immediacy: Tanka captures life’s fleeting moments—the dew on a petal, the touch of a lover’s hand. Each verse resonates with immediacy, inviting readers to feel, reflect, and connect.

A daily Tanka journey

In 2023, I successfully participated in NaPoWriMo by writing verses inspired by book covers. You can view the collection of 30 verses in the category: Making Verse – NaPoWriM2023. Throughout April 2024, I invite you to join me on this poetic voyage. Together, we’ll traverse boundless landscapes, celebrating the beauty of language, expression, and creativity—one Tanka at a time. Bookmark the category: Making Verse – NaPoWriM2024.


Book Review: 30 Stories about Life & Death: Flash Fiction

An engaging collection of short stories, spanning geographies, cultures, experiences, and emotions.

30 Stories about Life & Death: Flash Fiction – Book Cover

Book: 30 Stories about Life & Death: Flash Fiction

Author: Henri Colt

Genre: Fiction, Flash fiction

Review copy: Reedsy

Available at: Amazon.in

Recommended: Must read

An engaging collection of short stories, spanning geographies, cultures, experiences, and emotions.

Brevity in storytelling is a commendable trait. Henri Colt’s 30 Stories about Life & Death: Flash Fiction is a good representation of succinct writing with a flair for engagement. Divided into two parts – Life and Death – this compilation of flash fiction has many riveting tales in various shades.

The stories explore the themes of mortality, love, loss, and connection. They are set in different locations around the world, from Paris to Tokyo, and feature diverse characters and situations. Humorous, tragic, poignant, and surreal – all of them are written in an elegant style that captures the essence of each situation and emotion.

Colt’s vast travel experience has influenced the settings of most of the stories. His passion for life and understanding of human travails and feelings bind words into endearing fiction. As a reader, I could imagine him creating stories during each of his travels, capturing the nuances of places and people in dexterously crafted words. Throughout the narrative, Colt encapsulates various cultural experiences, sometimes with explicit descriptions, and sometimes with tender emotions. The characters are also varied in each story – teenagers, elderly, youthful, adventurous, humorous, travelers, and artists – the writer showcases his observations of different personalities and scenarios.

The depth of characterization in each story keeps the reader engaged. There is much to read between the lines and much to savor and absorb. Through vivid descriptions and surprising twists, Colt portrays the complexity and vulnerability of the human heart and our choices in life. Life lessons are tucked into the stories. For instance, “Don’t think, Kyra” he counsels, “Just be.” Or “… when suffering ends, and joy spills forth like the birth of an idea.” I recommend you get a copy and find the lines that resonate and stay with you, long after you finish reading it.


I received an advance review copy for free from Reedsy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Book Review: Crafting Great Stories

Crafting Great Stories -Gerald Gallagher – Book Cover

Book: Crafting Great Stories

Author: Gerald Gallagher

Genre: Non-fiction, writing

Review copy: Reedsy Discovery

Available at: Amazon.in

Recommended: Must Read

A concise guide to starting with the art of crafting impactful stories – ideal for students, beginners, leaders, and writers of all genres.

Storytelling is a buzzword not just amongst creatives and academicians but also in corporate boardrooms. Off late, there is an emphasis even on delivering impressive stories around bland data charts. Effective storytelling requires skills in story writing and narration. While there are several books on the subject, Gerald Gallagher’s Crafting Great Stories is a succinct and handy guidebook. It gets straight to the basics and carves an easy-to-grasp set of rules and practices based on research.

Gallagher summarizes all the key elements of story writing and supports them with ideas that can act as writing prompts for a beginner. He builds his book on the affirmation – “The author is mighty, indeed, having the ability to create worlds unlike our own.” His book is then a simple toolset to get a writer started on this unique journey. Crafting Great Stories has valuable information for those who are exploring the art of storytelling and a ready-reckoner for those wanting to hone their craft. My copy of the book has several highlighted takeaways for reference.

Apart from the rules related to good writing, such as outlining, plotting, characterization, setting, and tying it all up neatly together, Gallagher talks about an important subject – writer’s block. He offers advice on how to tackle writer’s block and acknowledges, “…writing burnout is a real and sometimes terrifying thing.” He talks about first deciding on the narrative type you want to build. On this canvas, one can add brush strokes and colors that give a complete picture of an outline. Sometimes, where to start from is the toughest question and Gallagher gives sound advice.

He has given numbered lists and cheat-sheets while providing ample material to create your own. There is information on story arcs and subplots, secondary characters, subvert expectations, and how the story’s theme differs from the moral. I found it interesting that the moral should be woven “into your writing mostly during the middle section of your writing.

I appreciate the author has dedicated an entire chapter to the art of editing and publishing, which I always believe breathes life into any piece of writing. I also enjoyed the chapter on creating settings and backdrops, and even treating them as characters. This is an important book and a must-have for all writers who want to learn the dynamics of creating impactful stories.