Ravi Shankar Etteth, a critically acclaimed writer and political cartoonist, wears several hats. With over 40 years of experience in journalism, he has worked across multiple publications. At The Hindu Lit for Life, he presented the perfect blend of technology and poetry.
His latest book, The Little Book of Goodbyes, explores the emotional connections between children, parents, and grandparents separated by distance. Drawing from his experiences in Kerala, the book journeys across landscapes from Malabar and Delhi to Dresden and New York. Etteth weaves together stories of friendship, loyalty, and the quiet significance of everyday moments. This short, feel-good work blends autobiography and fiction, placing it within the genre of autofiction.
Another of his books, Rhapsody Road: Poems, is a classic collection that remains evergreen, subtly reminding readers that time is limited and that one must remain present in the moment.
Change, Etteth suggested, comes from adapting to technological shifts while staying relevant and grounded. During his session, he spoke about his growing engagement with artificial intelligence. “I have been experimenting [with technology]. It is extremely versatile. [AI] is not easy. Prompts are really important,” he said, emphasising that the quality of prompts determines the results AI produces.
In a video presentation, he adds poetry is about real and imagined. “Poetry is about strangers, people who appear on pages laughing, sighing, thinking, recounting. When dreams have become real, for that moment they are there to impact a vital essence, the philosophy of revealing and interpreting what something means to you.”
As the world moves at an increasingly rapid pace, there are moments when we lose our way and forget who we truly are. By blending technology and poetry, one can walk alongside a changing world while still carrying a part of oneself along the journey.
The Hindu Lit For Life is presented by The all-new Kia Seltos. In association with: Christ University and NITTE, Associate Partners: Orchids- The International School, Hindustan Group of Institutions, State Bank of India, IndianOil, Indian Overseas Bank, New India Assurance, Akshayakalpa, United India Insurance, ICFAI Group, Chennai Port Authority and Kamarajar Port Limited, Vajiram & Sons, Life Insurance Corporation of India, Mahindra University, Realty Partner: Casagrand, Education Partner: SSVM Institutions, State Partner: Government of Sikkim & Uttarakhand Government
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