Life and love laced in verse
Ishara Jayawardane
One word to describe Rohan Liyanage would be gracious. Ruwathi
Ralithi is his fourth book of poems. He has previously published three
books: Adaraye Vilasitha (2004), Sadharu Asapuwa (2005) and Tharaka
Wessa (2007).
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Rohan Liyanage. Picture by Sudath Malaweera |
Liyanage is for the time being involved only in poetry and song and
not in the field of books and short stories.
“The inspiration for these poetry books are drawn from my own life
experiences. The theme of my poetry is love and life” he said.
His father has been a huge influence in his writing since youth.
“My father, Ariyadasa Liyanage, was also a poet. My father took me to
poetry circles and gatherings when I was a kid. He motivated me to pen
the verses,” he noted.
Liyanage writes under the themes of love, parting and life. He said
that feeling pleasant about oneself is important in poetry.
“I started writing poems when I was seven or eight. I am very
sensitive when it comes to love. I have experiences in this matter as
well as in parting from loved ones,” he stated.
 Liyanage
whose ambition is to be an expert songwriter admires Mahagamasekera,
Prof Sunil Aryaratne and Dr Ajantha Ranasinghe. He also says that in his
field, talent and continued practice goes a long way.
“If you have a passion, you can achieve it. You just need to put in
an effort. You need to plan to make it a reality,” he elaborated.
He also said that there is a lot of commercialization in every field.
This is a challenge for his effort is sans commercial expectations. If
there is determination a solution will be at hand. There will always be
a place for quality productions.
“I convert the challenges in life into something I enjoy. I also feel
that there should be unity amongst poets in this country. Lots of people
say there is no security in the poetry field. That is why you need to
plan ahead,” said Liyanage.
When asked as to what advice he can offer upcoming poets, the
talented poet replied: “They need to see and enjoy life. Be sensitive.
Enjoy the moonlight and starlight. Then you will automatically become a
poet”.
He plans to release a music CD. He also stated that he wishes to
provide opportunities for talented new comers to see their work in
print. |
