About the Book

Distant Stars, Closer Hearts:-

In Distant Stars, Closer Hearts, the poems navigate the vast, often isolating space between personal trauma and the longing for connection. The title speaks to the paradox of emotional distance and the yearning for intimacy—how, like distant stars in the night sky, the healing and understanding we seek can feel so far away, yet the heart’s desire to be seen and loved is ever-present. The collection explores how trauma often leaves us feeling like isolated stars, far removed from the warmth of human connection, trapped in a universe of our own pain and silence. Yet within these poems is also the hope that, despite the distance, hearts can find a way to draw closer, to understand and heal each other. The speaker reflects on the deep ache of feeling unseen, unloved, and unheard, but also the small gestures and acts of kindness that, though seemingly minimal, bring moments of hope and warmth. Like stars that shine brightly in the dark, the poems find beauty in the struggle, revealing that even from a place of brokenness, there is a longing to reach out, to find solace, and to connect. The title symbolizes the journey from being emotionally distant—disconnected from both others and oneself—to a place where hearts can finally meet, and healing can begin. It is about finding light in the darkness and realizing that even the farthest stars are not so far after all when we let our hearts shine brighter.

About the Author

Swastika Mukherjee is a 15-year-old poet whose writing is driven by the emotions and experiences she observes in the world around her. Inspired by the dullness and emotional complexity she often encounters, her poetry explores themes of longing, isolation, and the quest for self-understanding. With a unique sensitivity to the unspoken struggles of life, Swastika’s work captures the delicate balance between pain and hope, giving voice to the often invisible parts of the human experience. While poetry is her primary form of expression, Swastika also enjoys dance and painting, which provide her with additional outlets for her emotions. Through these creative pursuits, she seeks to translate her feelings into something tangible, whether through the rhythm of movement or the vibrancy of color. Swastika’s poetry is a journey of self-discovery, vulnerability, and healing, and she hopes to connect with readers who, like her, have felt the weight of the world in their hearts. With each poem, she aspires to spark understanding, empathy, and the courage to embrace both the light and the shadows within ourselves.