Again I Hear These Waters

This anthology highlights the literary works of the Miyah community, who are descendants of Bengali-Muslims living in the chars of Assam. The poems and songs explore themes of nature, loss, and longing, showcasing the lives of the community beyond victimization. The anthology features over twenty voices and uses the islands and riverbanks of the chars as a backdrop and metaphor, emphasizing the prismatic effect of water. Curated by Shalim M. Hussain, it is an offering and a gathering of the community's literary works.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: Tilted Axis Press

The Miyah community of Assam, nestled in the northeastern corner of India, is a vibrant tapestry woven from the descendants of migrant Bengali-Muslims who have settled in the chars, low-lying islands characterized by their susceptibility to floods and erosion. It is a region often overlooked and marginalized, considered "off the map" of mainstream India or the numerous languages that exist beyond the official purview of the nation or state. Within the realm of poetry and song, originally crafted in the Assamese language or local dialects spoken by the community, this anthology brings together a remarkable array of over twenty voices. Through their words, these voices capture the profound and intimate stories of nature, loss, and longing, illuminating the lives of these contemporary individuals beyond mere victimization. From the folk river-songs that metamorphose into poems to the tender expressions of love, the islands and riverbanks of the chars and chaporis along the Brahmaputra River become not just a backdrop but also a metaphorical canvas upon which these narratives unfold. Curated by the esteemed Shalim M. Hussain, a prominent figure in the Miyah poetry movement, Again I Hear These Waters serves as an offering, a gathering of these diverse voices and perspectives. It is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Northeast Indian community, showcasing their rich cultural heritage and the power of storytelling to connect hearts and bridge gaps.

ISBN-13: 9781911284925