Shahzad Sharjeel is a welcome addition to the ranks of Urdu poets who have chosen to express themselves in that beautiful genre of Urdu poetry, ghazal. His diction and style may draw from the rich tradition of the masters of ghazal, but his selection and treatment of subjects breaks new ground and resonates with contemporary themes.
These views were expressed by eminent poet Amjad Islam Amjad at the launch of Sharjeel's collection of poetry entitled "Kiyun," at the Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) arranged jointly by PAL and literary organisation "Akaas" here on Saturday.
In his keynote address, Amjad Islam noted that each new literary effort leaves him even more convinced that Urdu literature in general and poetry in particular was not only maintaining its position but actually gaining stature and following.
He urged all new writers to continue to work hard on the craftsmanship of writing. He said that poetry to him is a balance between one's innate ability to feel, observe and create verse, and the technical craft that can be learnt, honed and polished.
Shabnam Shakil, a renowned poetess while commenting on "Kiyun" termed Sharjeel's verse "immensely mature both in thought and style of expression," especially for someone whose very first collection of poetry has come out.
Well known figure of Islamabad's literary scene Asghar Abid also spoke on the occasion and lauded "Kiyun" as a continuation of the great Ghazal tradition of the sub-continent, and a true portrayal of the existing socio-political milieu. The author regaled the audience with light-hearted tales of the hardships faced first time by the authors in getting their works published. He also recited a few of his poems.
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