We are delighted to present to you the ninth anniversary issue of Spark! This issue is an ode to the stories that come from our lives – it’s a non-fiction special.
The creation of borders which have divided people remains a contentious issue. For many, identity has been challenged following what might be seen as the arbitrary establishment of boundaries. Richard’s essay reflects the experiences of a few people impacted by shifting borders and suggests that there is a more humane way of considering the establishment of identity.
A mother writes about a traumatic phase that their family had to live through when their daughter fell sick, which taught them to find the strength and love to go forward one step at a time. Just like their favourite hero – Harry Potter.
Suresh Subrahmanyan narrates a true life experience which puts him in mind of a P.G. Wodehouse novel where a similar train of events has been brilliantly captured by the ‘Master of farce.’
Bakul Banerjee’s essay fondly traces her journey with music through the years – from when she was a young girl growing up in India to when she moved to the US as young bride many years ago to what she enjoys listening to now.
Nitya’s essay is inspired by a recent visit to her ancestral house in the village. It is as much about the charms of the quiet rural milieu as it is about the reflections of a mind used to constant connectivity.
Chandramohan Nair remembers his childhood days in Zamalek that were full of affection, play and impressionable experiences.
What happens when your love for reading and books comes back with great vigour after a hiatus? Anupama Krishnakumar shares the joys of rediscovering reading in this essay.
Vani wonders where she can find the creativity that she seems to have lost in recent years, in the race to be ‘productive’ and ‘informed’.