Q: What are you currently reading?

A: I am reading Kulliyat-i-Bedil by Bedil Azeemabadi, one of the best poets of the Persian language, [whose poetry also discussed existentialism]. Bedil’s poetry opened minds, and people should read the work of this great poet of the 19th century. He presented his thoughts in such a beautiful way that one cannot leave [his work].

The book is interesting because the writer tries to capture the reader’s attention and uses fine language. I am an admirer of the poet and kept his book on my bedside table.

Q: Is there any book or author you read recently that you particularly enjoyed?

A: I recently read three or four books, and I really enjoyed A Conversation with Derrida, by Mustapha Cherif.

Jacques Derrida was a French philosopher of the 20th century, and Mustapha Cherif was an Algerian diplomat and writer. Mustapha Cherif met Jacques Derrida and later wrote a book about discussions they had on several issues.

It was an interesting book to read; they both discussed philosophy and other subjects. The writer explained all the questions that he raised before Jacques Derrida.

Although I do not agree with Derrida’s theories, I enjoyed the book a lot. I did not admit Derrida’s master and slave theory; I have reservations over it. I do not agree to allow specific or influential people to occupy space.

Derrida said that writing is often seen as less immediate and authentic than speech. However, I have objections to his thoughts about oral traditions and written concepts.

Q: Are there any classics you couldn’t get through?

A: I wanted to read Ulysses by James Joyce. It is considered the best work of modern literature, and I always wanted to read the book. It is considered a counterpart of the Homeric epic of Greece. Some people have observed that the story of this novel fit Joyce’s own sense of social or political irony. I was sparing time for the last many years, but due to a busy schedule I could not find time to read the book as the book requires one’s full attention.

Q: Do you think there is a great writer or poet?

A: I read the work of all the fiction writers and poets but I think Zia Jalandhari was the best poet in Urdu in our country and he produced the best work. Zia Jalandhari combined a modern style and western influences with the traditions of Urdu poetry.

Ali Akbar Natiq is also one of the best writers. His No Lakhi Kothi is great work. The [way] the story was presented by the writer was so attractive, but the reader cannot leave the book without completing it in one sitting. His short stories are an asset to the Urdu language.

Bedil Azeemabadi, Mir Anis and Mir Taqi Mir presented the reality of their eras from different angles. I always found these poets more attractive. Mir Anis’ presentation was matchless. Mir Taqi Mir presented the softer emotions of human beings and gave his words to the common man. He also brought the Urdu language from the royal court to commoners. Compared to Asadullah Khan Ghalid, I rate Mir Taqi Mir to be more understandable and the best poet.

Q: What are you planning to read next?

A: I am planning to read many books. I remain busy in professional work and compiling my new book of ghazals, Chiragh Zar, and have failed to find spare time to read some works of modern English literature which were produced in the recent past.

Published in Dawn, October 18th, 2017