A book ‘Ìsǘ Le: Songs of ordinary days’ released

DIMAPUR — A poetry book titled ‘Ìsǘ Le: Songs of ordinary days,’ written by Inakali Assumi was recently released.

An update from the author stated that the book is a collection of poems in English that offers a quiet yet powerful reflection on the emotional and cultural landscapes. She added that the book finds poetry in the overlooked corners of daily life incorporating the echoes of a rich heritage lost to time and modernity.

She stated that it offers a unique perspective on contemporary poetry, one that finds profound meaning in the simplicity of the everyday.

Easterine Kire in her note on the book writes, “What is unique about this collection is that it presents the idea that the Sümi universe is full of harmony and the natural world with its sights and sounds are occasions for song. It is a music filled universe. There is a musical quality about the poems, and one immediately understands that the original Ìsǘ le was composed to be sung. The setting of this collection is rural, pastoral, tranquil.

Also read: Sümi Baptist Church Diphupar youth ministry initiates Bible writing project

“The poet recaptures the simplicity of the Ìsǘ le in pictures of the natural world around her. Birds come to her door, white blossoms cover the plum trees, blue mist flowers gladden her heart, the rain is a welcome guest and all these objects of nature find their place in the Ìsǘ le as opportunity for song. The songs that would have been sung on these encounters are no more. But new songs are beginning in this gathering of memories, dreams and words. A new Ìsǘ le is patiently waiting to be born.”

It mentioned that the title of the book stems from indigenous Sümi Naga dialect. ‘Ìsǘ,’ is a shortened word for ‘Ìsǘ́na’ which means ‘this morning,’ while ‘le’ means ‘song.’ Thus meaning, ‘this morning’s song.’

It added that Ìsǘ Le was a type of Sümi folksong that was sung along the way to the field and while going forth to regular expeditions. The were songs about simple moments of joy and sorrow surrounding daily experiences and activities.

It further stated that the poet has translated one of the poems (Poem XI) from the book into Sumi dialect, giving it the tune of the original Ìsǘ le in an attempt to preserve the age old tune.