Finding Inspiration in Words: My Recent Reads

Books have always been my sanctum- a place where I dive into new ideas, find comfort, and challenge my perceptions. I have been trying to immerse myself in a diverse range of books, lately. As an avid reader, I have always been fond of something unique and thought-provoking. From classic literature to contemporary insights, they have not only been a source of comfort but have also challenged me to think differently.

When I was reading The Unabridged Journals of Sylvia Plath I felt as if I was being handed over a raw, unfiltered look into a complex genius. The book was echoing the intricacies of our inner worlds. It was a reminder of the depth of human experience and the beauty in vulnerability. Reading this book can be emotionally challenging. It delves into themes of mental health, self-identity, creativity and other complexities of being a woman in the mid-20th century. Despite Plath's journals offering a raw and intimate exploration of her inner world, it reveals some major struggles of a mind competing with itself. Plath's writing is very personal and poetic. She uses imagery and emotional depth which allows the reader to experience her thoughts and feelings viscerally. It is left to the reader to observe how the intricacies of mental illness take a toll on creativity and daily life. While reading it, I feel a burst of empathy towards Plath. She brings out so many emotions that it forced me to reflect on my inner complexities.

Little Women, an emotional epic, was a journey through the trials and triumphs of the March sisters. This book carries so much focus on love, gender roles, and the pursuit of personal growth. As a writer, Alcott's writing is characterized by its warmth, depth, and attention to the emotional lives of her characters. This book offers a beautiful blend of realism and idealism. Even though the story revolves around the importance of personal values, sisterhood, and the strength of family bonds, it is relatable and aspirational. The March Sisters represent a different facet of womanhood. Little Women is so emotionally engaging and it encourages introspection about personal values, ambitions, and societal roles we play. The novel’s portrayal of strong, independent women was groundbreaking for its time and continues to inspire discussions on gender and the role of women in society. I am so sure whoever reads this book will easily get attached to the March sisters!

Then, Shashi Tharoor's Pride, Prejudice and Punditry left me intellectually stimulated. Reading this book exposed me to a variety of topics. He covers themes like colonialism, nationalism, diplomacy, and the socio-political challenges in contemporary India. This book being a collection of his best works lives up to its reputation. It provided me with a nuanced understanding of current affairs and the rich tapestry of history. It challenges me to view the world with an analytical eye. He has a knack for compellingly presenting complex ideas, often provoking readers to rethink their preconceived notions. Even if one doesn't agree with his ideologies, his arguments are so captivating that one will be forced to give them a thought. His writing is eloquent, it reflects his personal opinions and has a sharp political commentary. Tharoor’s articulate arguments and in-depth knowledge encourage readers to engage with current affairs and historical contexts with a critical mind. His grandiose language is expected, but what truly resonated with me and left me captivated was his affection towards his parents.

While talking about democracy he mentions, "Freedom of the press is the mortar that binds together the bricks of democracy -- and it is also the open window embedded in those bricks." He subtly mentions the importance of freedom of the press in a democratic society.

"If America is a melting pot, then to me India is a thali--a selection of sumptuous dishes in different bowls. Each tastes different, and does not necessarily mix with the next but they belong together on the same plate, and they complement each other in making the meal a satisfying repast." Here, he mentions the diversity of India. Emphasising the nation's unity in diversity.

Lastly, The Comfort Zone by Kristen Butler introduced me to the idea that growth doesn't always have to be about stepping into discomfort; sometimes, it's about finding power within our safe spaces. Butler empowers us to break free from the shackles of familiarity which are holding us back. The book addresses themes of self-compassion, personal growth, the importance of mental well-being, and the power of small, intentional changes in our lives. Her approach is empathetic and empowering, encouraging readers to view their comfort zones as a source of strength rather than a limitation. Her anecdotes, short exercises, quotes and more allowed me to take a bold step in transforming my life.

I cannot stop thinking about how these books have shaped my thoughts in unexpected ways. Reading them has left me with countless lessons and perspectives that have enriched my journey and professional outlook.

My reflections are not merely celebrations of these literary works but an invitation. I extend this invitation to others to explore the transformative power of reading. No matter how old we get or what experiences we share, reading a book allows you to enter a different dimension altogether. These books collectively offer a rich landscape of thought and reflection. The Unabridged Journals of Sylvia Plath and Little Women are deeply personal and emotional, whereas, Shashi Tharoor's Pride Prejudice and Punditry is intellectually stimulating. The comforting yet empowering guidance in The Comfort Zone is truly remarkable. Each work provides a unique lens through which to view the world and ourselves. Together, they illustrate the diverse ways in which literature can shape our understanding, inspire change, and foster personal and intellectual growth. I'd love to hear from others—what books have shaped your thoughts and perspectives? How have they influenced your personal or professional journey? Let's connect and share the literary works that have inspired us.