DIMAPUR — Chief
Editor of Nagaland Post, Geoffrey Yaden, released two books titled ‘Naga Notes’
and ‘Haiku for Me,’ authored by Jungmayangla Longkumer and published by
PenThrill Publication House at Niu Kuda Inn, Dimapur, on Saturday.
Addressing the event as special guest, Yaden recalled his
first encounter with the author, noting her emergence in the mid-90s.
Geoffrey Yaden, Jungmayangla Longkumer and Vishu Rita Krocha
during the book release event in Dimapur.
He was impressed by her clarity, honesty, and frankness,
particularly her poignant phrase ‘the situation,’ which resonated deeply during
Nagaland's turbulent times.
Yaden highlighted the reviewer's observation that Longkumer
skilfully masked harsh realities with humour, akin to a cartoonist's touch. He
praised her brilliant work and noted her literary lineage, being the daughter
of renowned author Temsula Ao.
Vishu Rita Krocha, in her publisher's note, described the
occasion as special, celebrating Professor Jungmayangla Longkumer's unique
voice, which seamlessly blends legacy and originality in her writing.
Krocha recalled meeting Longkumer in 2019 during the launch
of ‘Wild Sunflowers,’ PenThrill's 26th publication. Since then, the press has
grown to over 100 titles, with Longkumer’s contributions flourishing, including
her participation as a speaker at the Nagaland Literature Festival.
The publisher praised the author's latest works, ‘Naga
Notes’ and ‘Haiku for Me,’ showcasing her versatility. ‘Naga Notes’
particularly stands out for its blend of introspection, cultural reflection,
and humour, resonating with locals while offering new perspectives for
outsiders.
In her review of the books, Dr. Maongkala Longchar,
Associate Professor at Government College Dimapur, praised ‘Haiku for Me’ as a
poignant and powerful collection that skilfully captures moments of beauty,
sorrow, and sharp social commentary.
“Whether reflecting on the fragility of life, feminine
strength, or environmental degradation, her words are precise, poignant, and
deeply evocative. Especially moving is her homage to Ao women potters in ‘Haiku
for Changki Potters,’ blending tradition and resilience with lyrical finesse,”
Longchar said.
In contrast, ‘Naga Notes’presents 15 anecdotal essays filled
with warmth, wit, and cultural insight. With humour rooted in everyday Naga
life, Longkumer explores themes from inheritance and politics to beauty
parlours and pork markets. The stories, while light-hearted on the surface,
subtly critique societal norms and celebrate the enduring spirit of Naga women.
Together, these two works showcase Longkumer’s remarkable
literary range from the meditative and minimalist to the richly narrative and
humorous.
Jungmayangla Longkumer expressed heartfelt gratitude to God
for guiding her throughout her life. She also thanked Geoffrey Yaden for giving
her the space and freedom to write on any topic in Nagaland Post, acknowledging
that this book launch was possible only because he gave a chance to a budding
writer like her.
She further expressed appreciation for her friend Sentila
Longkumer, who served as her honest critic and relentless supporter. It was
Sentila who pushed her to publish her work, going as far as dragging her to
Yaden’s doorstep and persuading him to accept her writing, she said.
