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A new biography and a career-spanning collection of Anthony Hecht’s work show how fluent he was in his period’s style, and hint at the ways it might have restrained him.
Manan Kapoor's second book, "A Map of Longings," delves into the life of Agha Shahid Ali, tracing his journey from a culturally rich upbringing in Kashmir to his role as a poet and professor in India and the US. The narrative intertwines Shahid's personal experiences, intellectual evolution, and the impact of geopolitical events, particularly the turmoil in Kashmir. Kapoor explores Shahid's diverse influences, his transformative years at Delhi University, and his prolific period at Penn State, shedding light on his significant contributions to poetry, including the revival of the ghazal form in America. The biography also examines Shahid's response to the escalating conflict in Kashmir, emphasising his commitment to highlighting human rights issues through his poetry. The book portrays Shahid's complex identity and his enduring legacy as a poet who transcended geographic and cultural boundaries.