"Joler Lekhon" by Josimuddin is a collection of poems that reflect the struggles and aspirations of the Bangladeshi people. The title itself means "Letters from Water," which symbolizes the fluidity and movement of life, as well as the importance of water in Bangladesh's agrarian society.
The book contains a total of 52 poems that are divided into two parts: "Purbo Borsha" (Early Rain) and "Dwitiyo Borsha" (Second Rain). Each poem is a window into the heart and soul of the Bangladeshi people, their joys, and their sorrows. Josimuddin's poetry is characterized by its simplicity, honesty, and deep empathy for the people he writes about.
In "Joler Lekhon," Josimuddin captures the essence of rural life in Bangladesh, with its beauty and hardship, its love and loss. He writes about the struggles of farmers, fishermen, and other working-class people, whose lives are intimately connected to the land and water. His poetry is not only a celebration of their resilience and strength but also a call for social justice and political change.
One of the most striking aspects of Josimuddin's poetry is his use of imagery. He employs vivid and powerful images that evoke the sights, sounds, and smells of Bangladesh. For example, in the poem "Ami Maron" (I am dying), he writes: "The sky is a blanket of dust/ the trees are skeletons/ the sun is a red-hot metal ball." These lines not only paint a picture of a dying landscape but also convey a sense of hopelessness and despair.
Overall, "Joler Lekhon" is a moving and poignant collection of poems that captures the spirit of Bangladesh and its people. Josimuddin's poetry is a testament to the power of literature to transcend borders and unite people in their shared humanity. Anyone who is interested in exploring the richness and diversity of Bangladeshi culture should read this book.