Get to Know Poet Darpan and Her Debut Poetry Book "One Step Closer: To Death"

Poetry, in many ways has always been mankind's best friend, some would say, a mirror of mankind's soul. It is more than just a bunch of verses and rhymes stitched together- it is an art form itself. For this article, we will be delving into the tides of what poetry really is and what better way to do that than to discuss it with poet, Darpan. Darpan is a young poet from the bustling city of Delhi, India. She began writing since she was 12 years old, and fast forward to today she has now published her poetry book titled, One Step Closer. A collection of emotional and vulnerable poems that speaks to the heart. She often writes poems under the Instagram user account awrtsblue . Today, we will get to know more about her, her book, as well as her insights on poetry and its future.

First, let's talk about your craft. You recently published your debut poetry book called One Step Closer, what was the inspiration behind creating the book?

I was inspired by several instances from my life and experiences of my friends. Some dramas and conversation also rendered me to work on the book. 

What was the meaning behind the title, "One Step Closer"?

I just wanted to convey how little problems in life somehow become a step closer to death.

Can you describe the process of what creating your poetry book was like? Was it a tedious and overwhelming process, or did it come together naturally?

It was a natural process, as I mentioned the pieces being inspired by my own life. Despite it being a natural process, it was overwhelming too. So, I can say the book has a lot of emotions, rather more personal yet resonate. 

What inspired you to start writing poems? Was there a particular moment that sparked your passion for it?

Actually, I have this thing where I just want to do everything, call it a try to seek validation or pure curiosity. Honestly speaking, I've always been weak in academics so my goal was to just be good in things I can do to make my parents proud. I'm not sure if they are proud of my writing though. 

As a poet, how would you define poetry? What do you think sets it apart from other forms of creative expression?

Poetry… I don't have a lot to say, but I guess it's survival. It's where everything I couldn't say in real life finds a voice. It's nostalgia, grief, obsession disguised as metaphors. More like a bruise that chooses to bloom instead of fading. Honestly, I don't write to be understood and I don't know if I'm even making sense right now.

But I write because something inside me needs to be released. Poetry lets me bleed without dying. Realistically, that sounds scary but somehow, I still call it beautiful.

What sets poetry apart is its ability to hold contradictions. It can be delicate and violent in the same breath. It just exists, raw, cruel, and unapologetic. I think poetry cracks open the world you’re already living in and makes you feel it deeper. It’s not just about expression, it’s about extraction. Of truth, of pain, of longing. It doesn't aim to entertain, always; sometimes, it just wants you to sit with your discomfort. And that’s what I love about it. I love the fact that poetry and grief go hand in hand. It's like poetry is a griefcase on its own. 

What are your thoughts on poetry’s future? Especially with the rise of AI poetry nowadays. Do you think that poetry will still have a space in the later years?

I'm really scared for poetry's future. Personally, writing today, I've already noticed so many people posting AI generated pieces and calling them theirs. It scares me because I try so hard only to stay unrecognized while someone out there gets all the attention with AI generated work. It's scary because perhaps in the future, AI poetry might be prevalent and writers who write with honesty will just get ignored. 

What advice would you like to give to teen poets or teens aspiring to become poets? Is there something you wish you knew before starting out as a poet?

Comparison. It's poison for a teen writer. Knowing that doesn't help at all, because you just can't stop yourself from comparing yourself every time you try to read. But that's what brings one's confidence down. The only advice I have to give is to not indulge too much in self depreciation and comparison, stand your ground.

Yes, there might be people who write better than you, but they don't write your ideas. Your words are yours to add life to. 

And with that, we conclude the interview. In a world that is filled with artificiality and the unending need to suppress emotions, Darpan stands as a pillar of honesty and bravery. The honesty to sit in on the discomfort of feeling your emotions, to let them flow into your own craft, and to always stand bravely and vulnerably. If that is not admirable then I don’t know what else is. Whether or not you're a writer, may her advice inspire you to never be afraid of being yourself, let it remind you that your voice matters. We thank Darpan for sharing her time, journey, and insights with us.