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  • Writer's pictureSameer Gudhate

BOOK REVIEW | THE SILENCE COMPILED | NEKREDEBLA OPUS



Imagine sitting in a quiet room, the kind where even the tiniest sound seems amplified. That’s the kind of quietude "The Silence Compiled" by Nekredebla Opus immerses you in—a space where silence speaks volumes. As a debut collection from a twenty-year-old poet, this book feels like a fresh breeze in the world of poetry. Opus, who started writing at thirteen and found solace through words while grappling with depression, offers us a window into their soul through these pages.


So, what’s "The Silence Compiled" all about? Picture a collection of poems that don’t just skim the surface of human emotions but dive deep into the silent struggles we all face. This isn’t a conventional narrative, but rather a beautifully fragmented exploration of themes like loss, isolation, and the search for connection. Each poem is a piece of the puzzle, giving us glimpses into different emotional landscapes without wrapping things up in neat, tidy packages. It’s like taking a journey through a gallery of feelings where each poem is a distinct, moving artwork.


Opus’s writing is something special. The language is rich and immersive, painting pictures with words that hit you right in the gut. The poet’s use of free verse is particularly striking, allowing for a fluid and raw expression of emotions. The vivid imagery and metaphors they use are both powerful and thought-provoking, making you feel like you’re not just reading but experiencing the emotions firsthand. It’s the kind of writing that demands your full attention and then rewards you with its depth.


The themes explored in this collection are as diverse as they are profound. Opus tackles everything from the pain of brokenness to the complexities of love and isolation. What makes these themes stand out is how personal and yet universal they are. These poems reflect a unique perspective but also tap into experiences that many of us can relate to. The way Opus weaves these themes together gives the collection a rich, layered feel that keeps you thinking long after you’ve put the book down.


While it doesn’t follow a traditional plot, the structure of "The Silence Compiled" is thoughtfully arranged. The flow from one poem to the next creates a sense of continuity and emotional progression. It’s not about a linear story but about navigating through a maze of feelings, and Opus does this with a sense of purpose and cohesion. The pacing feels just right, allowing each poem to breathe and make its impact before moving on to the next.


At its core, this collection is a meditation on silence and solitude. The poems delve into the quiet struggles and emotional silences that define our inner lives. There’s a poignant beauty in how Opus captures these themes, using silence as a metaphor for the unspoken and often hidden aspects of our experiences. It’s a powerful way to explore the human condition and makes the book feel like a mirror reflecting our own silent battles.


Reading "The Silence Compiled" is like having a heart-to-heart with an old friend who just gets you. The emotional depth of the poems hits hard, whether it’s the raw intensity of "Pain" or the evocative imagery in "शोणित" (Blood). These poems aren’t just words on a page—they’re emotional experiences that linger with you, making you reflect on your own feelings and experiences.


One of the standout strengths of this collection is its emotional resonance. Opus’s ability to capture and convey complex emotions is truly impressive. The writing is both lyrical and grounded, making each poem feel both accessible and deeply profound. Plus, the book’s cover is a work of art in itself, perfectly reflecting the mood and themes within.


While the collection is a strong debut, some readers might find the abstract nature of the free verse a bit challenging if they prefer more structured poetry. A few poems might benefit from a bit more refinement to enhance their emotional impact, but this is a minor quibble in an otherwise compelling collection.


Personally, I found "The Silence Compiled" to be a deeply moving read. Opus’s ability to articulate the unspoken aspects of human emotion is both refreshing and impactful. The collection resonated with me on a personal level, and I appreciated the way it made me pause and reflect on my own experiences.


In summary, "The Silence Compiled" is a beautiful debut from Nekredebla Opus. It’s a collection that offers a deep dive into the silent spaces of human emotion with a writing style that’s both evocative and authentic. If you’re someone who appreciates poetry that resonates with the quiet yet powerful aspects of life, this book is definitely worth your time. I’m excited to see where Opus’s journey takes them next and would recommend this collection to anyone looking for poetry that truly speaks to the soul.



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