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Unveiling the Enchanting World of Coconut Crow Said by Nisha Patel: A Poetic Tapestry

Thomas Mann

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Published in Coconut (Crow Said Poetry) Nisha Patel

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In the realm of contemporary poetry, Nisha Patel's "Coconut Crow Said" emerges as a captivating collection that weaves together themes of identity, belonging, and the interconnectedness of all things. Patel's verse invites readers on a vibrant exploration of familial bonds, cultural heritage, and the search for one's place in the tapestry of life.

A Tapestry of Identity

Throughout the collection, Patel grapples with the complexities of identity, particularly as a woman of color navigating multiple cultures. In "Coconut Crow," the titular bird becomes a poignant symbol of her own dual heritage, embodying both the sweetness and bitterness of her experiences:

Coconut (Crow Said Poetry)

by Nisha Patel

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2028 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	102 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

Coconut Crow said, I am brown, see, Like the inside of you, Like the outside of me Like the earth under your feet I am brown, like the trees That give you shade and the fruit That makes your tongue sweet.

In poems like "Brown Girl Dreaming" and "Unbecoming," Patel explores the nuances of race, gender, and the societal expectations that shape our identities. Her words resonate with raw honesty and a profound understanding of the complexities of living in a world where one's identity is often defined by others.

Reclaiming Heritage

An integral thread running through "Coconut Crow Said" is Patel's exploration of her Indian heritage. Through vivid imagery and sensory details, she evokes the colors, flavors, and traditions of her ancestral land. In "Amma's Hands," she pays homage to her mother's culinary skills, transforming the act of cooking into a celebration of love and connection:

Amma's hands, kneading dough, Roti love, chapati care, Paratha comfort, dosa delight, Idli joy, uttapam cheer.

Patel's embrace of her heritage extends beyond food to encompass language, spirituality, and the wisdom of her ancestors. In "The Sari," she weaves a metaphor for her multifaceted identity, drawing parallels between the intricate folds of the traditional garment and the layers of her own being.

Interconnectedness of Life

A central tenet of "Coconut Crow Said" is the interconnectedness of all living things. Patel's poetry transcends the boundaries of human experience, embracing the natural world as an integral part of our existence. In "The Tree," she personifies a majestic oak, presenting its story as a mirror to our own lives:

I have stood through storms And weathered the sun's gaze. I have seen birds nest in my branches And squirrels scamper along my limbs. I have given shade to weary travelers And witnessed the changing seasons.

Throughout the collection, Patel emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and our shared responsibility to care for the planet we inhabit. In "The River," she reminds us of the vital role water plays in sustaining life, urging us to be mindful of our consumption and pollution.

Legacy of Love and Resilience

"Coconut Crow Said" is more than just a collection of poems; it is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the search for belonging. In "My Grandmother's Garden," Patel celebrates the legacy of her grandmother, a woman who faced adversity with grace and determination:

My grandmother's garden Was a riot of colors, A symphony of scents, A haven of peace. She planted flowers That bloomed in defiance Of the harsh sun and wind.

Patel's poetry invites us to reflect on our own roots, to honor the stories of our ancestors, and to carry their wisdom forward. In "The Crow's Call," she leaves us with a message of hope and resilience, reminding us that even amidst adversity, the spirit of life persists:

The crow's call is a reminder That even in the darkest of times, There is always hope. For the crow is a survivor, A scavenger, A creature of the night. But it is also a creature of the day, A messenger of the sun.

Nisha Patel's "Coconut Crow Said" is a breathtaking collection of poetry that explores the multifaceted nature of identity, belonging, and the interconnectedness of all things. Through vivid imagery, honest reflection, and a deep appreciation for her cultural heritage, Patel invites readers to embark on a profound journey of self-discovery and to embrace the beauty of their own unique tapestry of experiences.

"Coconut Crow Said" has received critical acclaim and has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2019 Whiting Award for Poetry and the 2018 Prairie Schooner Book Prize in Poetry. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human condition and the enduring power of the poetic voice.