The book Yauvan Harayeko Manche (The Man Who Lost His Youth), a collection of poems by DB Sikaru, was recently launched in Kathmandu. The book launch event took place at the Sahityapost office in Kausaltar, where renowned poets Shravan Mukarung and Dr. Navaraj Lamsal jointly unveiled the book.
Despite the absence of the author, who is currently working in South Korea, the event was attended by Ashwini Koirala, the editor-in-chief of Sahityapost, who represented Sikaru.
During the program, guest poet Shravan Mukarung shared his insights on prose and verse poetry, emphasizing that creating prose poetry is more challenging than verse poetry. “Verse poetry has its own traditional grammar, style, and presentation. While it may be difficult to master initially, it becomes easier with practice. However, prose poetry requires creating a new style on uncharted paths, making it a more demanding task,” Mukarung explained.
Dr. Navaraj Lamsal, another guest poet, expressed his delight at the emergence of a new voice in literature. “Diversity in literature cannot be achieved solely through established writers. We need professionals from various fields—doctors, engineers, pilots, and other subject matter experts—to contribute to literature. This is how we can enrich literary diversity,” he stated.
Lamsal further praised Sikaru’s work, noting that the poems are simple, concise, and heartfelt, capturing the emotions of working abroad with artistic precision. “The poet may be in Korea, but we are fortunate to have his book in our hands. Such moments are truly joyful for us,” he remarked.
The collection Yauvan Harayeko Manche consists of forty-five short poems, exploring themes of patriotism, family sentiments, the hidden pains of foreign labor, love, and youth. The book is priced at 350 rupees.
