Poetry has always been the language of imagination, a space where reality and fantasy blend seamlessly into verses that touch the soul. Amitava Mazumdar’s Realms and Domains is such a collection—a poetic journey that invites readers to wander through landscapes of thought, wonder, and quiet reflection.
At first glance, Realms and Domains presents itself as a book of explorations. But once inside, it becomes clear that this is not merely a collection of poems; it is an invitation to roam beyond the boundaries of the ordinary. Mazumdar layers his verses with essence, giving each poem a distinct atmosphere, like entering a different “realm” or “domain” of thought. There is no rigid structure or formula to these poems; instead, they drift like clouds, evoking moods and ideas without insisting on a singular interpretation.
The beauty of this collection lies in its simplicity and openness. Mazumdar makes it clear that his work is not intended to challenge or hurt any religious or theological beliefs. Rather, it is a “whiff of ideas,” a free-spirited flow of imagination. This makes the book accessible to a wide range of readers—from those who read poetry casually to those who seek deeper philosophical undertones.
The poems encourage readers to pause and think, to find their own meanings within the lines. Some verses echo themes of curiosity and wonder, while others reflect on human emotions and the endless expanse of thought. There is a dream-like quality to his writing, as if the poet himself is wandering lazily through his imagination, taking the reader along on his journey.
As a poet, Amitava Mazumdar does not impose himself on the reader. He is not prescriptive; instead, he is a companion on a shared walk through ideas. This quality reflects in his self-description—an “insane poet” who delights in lazy wanderings. There is an honesty and humility in this identity. Born in Kolkata in 1973, Mazumdar brings both maturity and playfulness to his craft. His voice is not that of a preacher or a philosopher, but of a dreamer who longs for happiness with all, and that longing quietly seeps into his work.
One of the striking aspects of Realms and Domains is how it balances imagination with accessibility. Poetry often risks alienating readers when it becomes too abstract, but Mazumdar avoids this by keeping his tone conversational and his imagery relatable. Each poem feels like a gentle exploration rather than a puzzle to be solved.
For readers who enjoy poetry as a meditative experience, Realms and Domains will be a rewarding read. It does not demand heavy analysis but rather invites immersion—like watching ripples on water or drifting into a daydream.
In conclusion, Amitava Mazumdar’s Realms and Domains is a refreshing addition to contemporary poetry. It reminds us that poetry does not always need to answer questions or deliver messages; sometimes, it is enough for it to offer “a whiff of ideas” and leave behind an essence that lingers in the reader’s mind. Gentle, imaginative, and deeply human, this collection will resonate with those who cherish the art of wandering through words.
