In our previous issue there was an invitation of views on how to define mini-poetry. The response has not been encouraging.
It seems the importance of the topic has not been understood. Hence we think the need of defining the form and content of
mini-poetry ought to be explained.
Brevity, no doubt, is the primary pre-condition of mini-poetry.
But how brief should it be? Or to put it the other way, how long at the most? The Oxford Dictionary of Quotations states that
the shortest poem in English language (by an unknown poet) is titled 'On the Antiquity of Microbes' and contains only this
much -
Adam Had'em.
Well, minimality
of content taken for granted, does mini-poetry have to deal with a lesser expanse of theme also? Perhaps yes. Because no mini-poetry
is going to deal with ideas of epic proportions. But does it make the thoughts and sensibilities that it handles any less
important? Exploring the antiquity of microbes is no less a thematic adventure. And structuring the expression in minimum
number of words no lesser a poetic craftsmanship.
Above all 'mini-poetry', as we emphasized in our
last issue, is the need of our times. It matches the needs and receptivities of the 21st century life.
The other day we chanced upon an exquisite collection of mini poems titled 'The Macmillan Book of Short Poems' edited
by L.Mohapatra, K.K.Mohapatra and N.P.Tripathy. It claims to be the first book of its kind. And there is cause for us to be
elated. For here is atleast a documented work of the kind of poetry that we wish to propagate.
We happily
present the 7th issue to our numerous visitors and admirers. Please go to all our pages and offer your valuable comments.
