Lyrical verses exploring deep themes of human longing.

Bhubaneswar: Literature enthusiasts in the Temple City have a new reason to celebrate as local author Jay Jagdev unveils his latest work. Moving away from the essay format of his debut, the city-based writer has embraced the rhythm of verse in his second book, titled When Blood Becomes Ink.

Jay Jagdev is a well-known figure in Bhubaneswar circles, balancing a professional life as an IT entrepreneur and academic with a deep passion for culture and writing. While his first book, Random Reflections, offered readers a series of essays on various social issues, this new publication takes a far more personal and emotional turn.

When Blood Becomes Ink serves as a poignant exploration of universal human experiences. The collection delves deep into themes that resonate with everyone: love, profound loss, and the lingering sense of longing. Jagdev uses life itself as his canvas, painting pictures of the emotional struggles people face when trying to move on from the past. The poems highlight how individuals often secretly hold onto memories even when they try to detach themselves from previous chapters of their lives.

In a modern literary world dominated by free verse, Jagdev’s style stands out for its classic approach. He brings back an old-world charm, utilizing rhyme and lyrical qualities that are becoming rare today. Critics may even spot a hint of Latin American stylistic influence in the flow of his words.

The collection features titles such as A Minute in Hand, Stay There, Your Language, The Black Box, and My Desires. Each piece documents specific feelings and lived experiences with striking honesty. These are not poems to be rushed; they are concise yet potent, designed to be read slowly so the reader can absorb the multiple layers of emotion woven into every line.

With this release, the Jay Jagdev poetry collection offers a raw, unfiltered look at the human condition, cementing his place as a versatile voice in Odisha’s literary landscape.