Writing, whether poetry or prose, serves as an extension and expression of human sensitivity. It is a process that impacts our emotional awareness and influences our social concerns. Writing provides us with insight into the various issues of our times, helping us grasp the different dimensions of problems, the anxieties they generate, and their broader implications. It equips us to face challenges with resilience. Ultimately, the purpose of writing is to nurture our consciousness, broaden our sense of humanity, and cultivate virtues. A writer’s primary responsibility should be to uphold what is right and denounce what is wrong, without any bias or prejudice.
In recent times, there has been a sharp increase in disturbing incidents related to religion, caste, and community, creating unrest among the masses. In such circumstances, what moral responsibility do writers and poets have? This is a question that demands careful consideration. In our society, poets and writers are often seen as guides, and their role should be to seek the truth and present events with impartiality and balance. However, if poets or writers react emotionally to incidents involving only one community while remaining silent on issues concerning another, their sense of impartiality may naturally be questioned. This can lead to the perception that they are indirectly participating in politics through their writing. A writer’s credibility lies in his ability to reflect the truth, without being swayed by the sentiments of any particular group.
Another crucial point to consider is the misuse of freedom of expression. When humor or satire crosses the line into vulgarity, it undermines the moral fabric of society. The argument that one has the choice to either watch such content or avoid it altogether is flawed. It’s akin to allowing a bar to be set up near a school/college, with the justification that students can choose whether or not to go inside. Private actions, when made public, become subject to social scrutiny and it is only natural for raising questions on their ethical implications. Entertainment programs or writings that breach our cultural and moral standards and degrade rather than uplift our values will inevitably raise concerns. It is the responsibility of writers, directors, creators, and poets to address these issues and hold them up to public examination.
In conclusion, writing should remain a reflection of both human emotions and societal responsibilities. It should aim to broaden our understanding, enhance our compassion, and challenge us to confront the realities of life without bias. Writers and poets, through their impartial and thoughtful work, can help guide society by spotlighting both the injustices that need to be fought and the values that need to be preserved, holding a mirror to the complexities of the world around us.
Author is Former Fellow, IIAS (Shimla). He can be mailed at skraina123@gmail.com
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