Book Of Songs

"Book of Songs" is a collection of Temsula Ao's poetry, encompassing works from her various individual collections published between 1988 and 2007. It includes poems from "Songs that Tell" (1988), "Songs that Try to Say" (1992), "Songs of Many Moods" (1995), "Songs from Here and There" (2003), and "Songs from the Other Life" (2007). The book is a celebration of songs, reflecting Ao's engagement with Naga folk culture and the dynamics of change, often employing lyrical renderings of life.
The collection is significant because it represents Ao's dedication to preserving and celebrating the oral tradition of her Naga heritage, where poetry is often synonymous with song. The poems in "Book of Songs" explore themes related to the Naga experience, drawing inspiration from their culture and folklore, while also engaging with broader issues of identity and change. The book is a testament to Ao's ability to weave together personal experiences, cultural narratives, and universal emotions through her poetic voice.