Have you ever stumbled upon a book that felt like it was speaking directly to you, almost as if it knew your innermost thoughts? Tides of Being by Tanvi Agarwal, beautifully illustrated by Ruchi Sinha, is that kind of book. It’s not just poetry; it’s a journey inward, calling you to pause and reflect on the ebb and flow of life. Tanvi Agarwal, a rising voice in introspective poetry, brings forward her distinct ability to make readers feel seen, offering verses that touch the essence of our shared humanity.
Tides of Being is a collection of 100 poems, each one a short but impactful exploration of life's big questions. Divided into three key themes—Virtues of Life, You & Chaos, and Seeking Solace—the book explores everything from personal growth to the chaotic beauty of existence, each verse gently nudging readers to pause, breathe, and reconnect with their inner selves. It’s like holding a mirror to your soul, urging you to look at your life and decisions with newfound depth and honesty.
Tanvi’s writing is refreshingly simple yet profound. Each poem is compact, usually under 12 lines, but that brevity doesn’t limit the emotional resonance. She uses straightforward language that invites everyone, regardless of background, to connect with her work. There’s something magical about how she can convey so much in so few words, making you feel like each verse holds a world of meaning beneath the surface. It’s the kind of writing that reveals more with each read.
The themes Tanvi explores are ones we all grapple with—finding purpose, navigating chaos, and searching for peace. But what makes her approach unique is the subtle encouragement to answer the questions that her verses raise, like, “Are you satisfied with your life?” or “Is your thought aligned with your doing?” These aren’t just questions; they’re invitations to introspection, and each theme gives readers a framework to dig into their own lives.
Divided into three clear sections, the structure of the book helps create a natural progression for readers. Starting with Virtues of Life, it eases into a contemplation of personal values before exploring the messier aspects of life in You & Chaos. Finally, Seeking Solace provides a comforting close, offering readers a sense of calm after the storm. This structured approach gives the book a wonderful flow, almost like a guided journey through the complexities of human experience.
Beyond personal reflection, Tanvi’s poems touch on universal themes—peace, resilience, and self-acceptance. Her words subtly remind us that life’s uncertainties and struggles are natural, and they don’t diminish our worth or potential. The verses encourage us to embrace both our light and our darkness, promoting self-compassion and resilience. This theme of finding beauty in chaos is particularly poignant, resonating deeply in a world that often feels overwhelming.
Reading Tides of Being feels like a warm embrace on a rainy day. Some verses uplift, others stir a bit of melancholy, but each one is comforting in its own way. The words linger, making you think about them long after you’ve closed the book. Certain poems, especially those in the Seeking Solace section, were especially moving, offering a gentle reminder that, even in moments of solitude or confusion, there’s solace in self-reflection.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its accessibility. These aren’t lofty, hard-to-decipher poems; instead, they’re simple, heartfelt, and relatable. The addition of Ruchi Sinha’s illustrations elevates the experience even further. Each drawing complements the theme of the verse, adding visual depth to Tanvi’s words. It’s rare to find a poetry collection that balances written and visual art so seamlessly, making this book a delight to return to time and again.
If I had to point out one limitation, it might be that the simplicity of the language occasionally limits the poems’ depth on a first read. While this style makes the book wonderfully approachable, it sometimes leaves you wanting a bit more complexity. However, this also makes it a book that invites multiple readings, with new interpretations emerging each time. In future works, Tanvi could experiment with slightly longer verses to dive even deeper into her themes.
I found myself drawn to this collection because it aligns with a longing I’ve often felt for quiet introspection amidst the busyness of life. There’s something therapeutic about picking up a book that invites you to sit with yourself and explore your own thoughts. For anyone who’s ever questioned their direction or felt caught in the chaos of life, Tides of Being is a gentle companion, always ready to offer a thoughtful line to reflect on.
Tides of Being is more than just a poetry book—it’s a journey through one’s own heart and mind, masterfully crafted to appeal to readers of all ages. Tanvi Agarwal and Ruchi Sinha have created a work that will resonate deeply with those looking for meaning, peace, or simply a comforting read. Whether you’re an avid poetry lover or a newcomer to the genre, this collection promises an enriching experience. I wholeheartedly recommend it and look forward to seeing where Tanvi’s introspective talent leads her next.
Comments