Poetry's role, financial struggles of poets in today's digital era

In today's digital age, poetry remains a powerful tool for exploring complex emotions and offering a nuanced understanding of the world. Monica Mody, a celebrated poet and author, believes that poetry continues to play an essential role in society, offering insights into humanity, womanhood, and our relationship with the earth.

- Yashaswini Krishna

However, while poetry's relevance endures, the financial viability of making a living as a poet is increasingly challenging, especially in India.

Mody, known for works such as 'Songs of Moojaw' and 'Renewal', recently discussed the difficulties poets face in the modern world during an interview with News Trail.

She emphasised that although digital content is flourishing on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Netflix, the economic recognition for poets is still limited. “Art has never been widely celebrated in India outside of specific eras, like the medieval period,” Mody remarked, adding that making a sustainable living as a poet is difficult, even in today's content-driven society.

In India, where access to free content is widespread, particularly through digital platforms, it can be hard for poets to monetize their work.