About the Book
Book: Mearcstapa: Border-Walker
Author: Brainerd Prince
Publisher: Rupa Publications
Price: Rs 395/-
Brainerd Prince's latest poetry collection challenges rigid boundaries, says ABHI SINGHAL
Mearcstapa (Old English: border-walker) is a thought-provoking collection of poems that explores the essence of dialogue and integration. It also takes you through the fluidity of identities. The book presents the poet as a traveler of worlds, a seeker of wisdom, and a keeper of mysteries, someone who transcends rigid boundaries and fosters conversations that bridge differences.
The poetry in Mearcstapa revolves around transforming discussions and debates into meaningful dialogues. The poet contrasts different forms of discourse: jalpa and vitanda (contentious debates) with vada (constructive argument) and sambhasha (dialogue), highlighting the importance of understanding over mere opposition. The ultimate aim is to evolve dialogues into svadhyaya, a deeper self-reflection. This thematic exploration underscores the poet's belief in the power of communication to foster personal and collective growth.
At its core, Mearcstapa embraces interdisciplinarity, urging readers to engage with diverse traditions while respecting differences. The poet stresses that true self-awareness emerges when we acknowledge the agency and personhood of others. In doing so, the book becomes more than just a collection of poems. It transforms into an invitation for introspection and meaningful engagement.
By seamlessly blending philosophical inquiry with poetic expression, Mearcstapa resonates with those who seek to navigate the complexities of identity, belonging, and human connection. The book's unique approach makes it a compelling read for those who appreciate poetry that not only provokes thought but also fosters a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.
Mearcstapa: The Border-Walker in All of Us
All human beings possess a dash of mearcstapa, even if they have lived a monocultural life within a close-knit community. While each human self is unique, it inevitably experiences diversity and plurality. Within our unified selves, many intellectual and cultural traditions flow together like converging rivers. Even among family members and siblings, the 'other' is present, reminding us that diversity is inscribed in human nature itself.
The word mearcstapa originates from Beowulf, one of the most important old english epic poems composed in the seventh century. It was used to describe Grendel and is translated as 'border-walker' or 'border-stalker.' Makoto Fujimura popularised the term in his book Culture Care: Reconnecting with Beauty for Our Common Life, associating it with individuals who live on the edges of traditions, moving fluently between different groups and cultures. A mearcstapa is often misunderstood but serves as an interpreter fostering deep connections between diverse communities.
The author, Brainerd Prince, has explored this theme in his research on Sri Aurobindo's integral philosophy, which bridges the religious and secular realms. His work reflects how the meeting of disparate traditions has become central in today's age of technology, making the mearcstapa more relevant than ever.
