Pen Thrill unveiled its 74th publication, “An Underwhelming Thing-of-Thoughts and Poetry,” a captivating anthology comprising 40 poems written by the talented 22-year-old English Literature undergraduate, Ketousieno Prescilla Khamo. The momentous book launch event took place at the esteemed Red Cross Conference Hall in Kohima.
Khamo, the brilliant mind behind the book, recounted her writing journey, which began with a deep passion for reading. She acknowledged that reading acted as a gateway that led her to the path of writing. Her interest in literature blossomed during her pre-teen years, and she composed her very first poem, “Oh Mother Dear,” assigned as homework by her teacher at the same age. Encouraging compliments from her teacher ignited a profound motivation within her.
She revealed that her fascination with poetry grew further as she delved into the works of renowned American poets such as Edgar Allan Poe, Sylvia Plath, Emily Dickinson, T.S. Elliot, and many others. Their verses resonated with her, providing a sense of being heard, understood, and less alone on her own journey, which ultimately inspired her to wield the same power through her writing.
“The book is a collection of thoughts and poetry that has been a labor of love for a significant period,” Khamo explained. Initially centered around wishful thinking from a child’s perspective, the collection evolved over time, transforming into an introspective journey of growing up and leaving behind the vestiges of childhood. It delves into the experiences of losing cherished people and memories, as well as shedding parts of oneself that were once vital but no longer within reach, all in pursuit of progress in life.
Khamo acknowledged that her personal experiences, particularly the tumultuous transitional period from teenage to adulthood, played a pivotal role in giving life to “an underwhelming thing.” The book addresses the essence of embracing, accepting, and letting go of crucial and inevitable life experiences to step into the next chapter of life.
During the event, Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu, Assistant Professor at Kohima College, expressed that every writer’s greatest dream is for their work to be understood by fellow writers. She emphasized that the beauty of life lies in its underwhelming realities, which shape our existence and constantly propel us forward.
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Rita Krocha, writer, poet, and owner of Pen Thrill Publications, highlighted that the 74th publication marked a significant milestone for the publishing house on their journey towards their ambitious goal of reaching 100 publications. She proudly stated that young people in the state were now writing and reading more than ever, a trend that bodes well for the growth and enrichment of literature, steering it in the right direction.
With “An Underwhelming Thing-of-Thoughts and Poetry,” Ketousieno Prescilla Khamo’s lyrical prowess and reflections on life’s intricacies promise to leave a lasting impact on readers, resonating with their own journeys and experiences. The book launch event at the Red Cross Conference Hall stood as a testament to the enduring power of literature and the indomitable spirit of young writers like Khamo who shape the literary landscape.
