YOU don't choose the person you fall in love with; it's an undeniable truth. The heart desires what it desires, often without rhyme or reason, and sometimes, just sometimes, it yearns for the impossible and the unattainable.
Love has a way of defying logic and shattering expectations. It can be a source of immense joy, but it also has the potential to bring profound pain.
Love isn't always a fairy tale with a happy ending. Instead, it is often a tumultuous journey filled with highs and lows, moments of bliss and stretches of heartache.
You may find yourself deeply enamoured with someone who's out of reach, whether due to circumstances, timing or the simple fact that they don't feel the way you do. This unrequited love can feel like a constant ache, a reminder of the gap between your dreams and reality.
Yet, even at its most painful, love teaches us invaluable lessons about ourselves and the world around us. It shows us the depths of our capacity for emotion, the strength of our desires, and the resilience of our spirits.
Love, in all its forms, shapes us, moulds us, and ultimately, helps us grow. While the heart may sometimes want what it cannot have, the experience of loving, even when it hurts, is an integral part of the human journey.
Stories about love, loss, hate, frustration and the longing for the forbidden fruit are beautifully encapsulated in an anthology of 20 stories by prolific author, Emeritus Professor Malachi Edwin Vethamani in his latest offering, Have I Got Something To Tell You.
This collection delves deep into the human experience, exploring the myriad emotions that define our lives. Each story is a testament to Vethamani's keen understanding of the complexities of the human heart and the intricate web of relationships.
"These aren't all new stories," the jovial professor confides, smiling. "Some of the stories date back to the 1990s!" he adds blithely. Vethamani who wears many hats — poet, writer, editor, critic, bibliographer and professor — is a familiar name in Malaysian literature, with an impressive number of books under his belt.
AN EARLY START
It all started with the short story, The Kiss, which centres on a young boy witnessing the funeral organised by his family for his late uncle. The boy, terrified that he might be forced to kiss his Periappa, navigates the solemn event with a mix of fear and curiosity.
Through his innocent eyes, the story offers a poignant and heartfelt account of the funeral, capturing the raw emotions of mourning and the deep sense of loss experienced by the family.
The young boy's perspective adds a layer of poignancy, as he grapples with his own memories about his uncle and the overwhelming grief surrounding him, providing a deeply moving narrative of love and loss.
"I wrote this story and entered it into the New Straits Times-Shell short story competition, which was then helmed by former editor Kee Thuan Chye," he reveals.
He adds: "My editor friend assured me that it was a strong story. Back in those days, submitting entries via email wasn't an option. I had to print out the story and send it to a friend, who then delivered it to the NST."
With a cheeky grin, he recounts winning the consolation prize of RM1,000, a princely sum at the time. "I still have that little award," he says, chuckling. This marked the start of Vethamani's foray into short story writing.
A year later, another story, also featured in his book, Husband Material, was published in the NST. The tale revolves around Shanti, a young woman confronted with a pivotal moment when her boyfriend becomes betrothed to another. This coming-of-age narrative explores themes of forbidden love, heartbreak and the societal norms that often constrain our choices in life.
Several of Vethamani's stories have been adapted into plays, showcasing their enduring appeal and theatrical potential. Among these adaptations are Coitus Interruptus, Best Man's Kiss and The Good Daughter.
These adaptations not only highlight the versatility of Vethamani's storytelling but also resonate with audiences through their exploration of love, intimacy, and the intricacies of familial and social expectations. Coitus Interruptus, he shares, was staged twice in Mumbai, India.
"I find great enjoyment in writing," the prolific writer says, adding: "It's a passion that allows me to explore and express ideas that resonate deeply with me." His eyes light up as he speaks, emphasising the profound connection he feels with the written word. "Whether it's crafting stories or delving into poetry, writing is my way of capturing moments, emotions and reflections that shape my perspective on life."
Vethamani's literary journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to resonate across generations.
Through his latest book, he not only entertains but also enlightens, offering profound insights into love, loss, and the human experience. His works, whether on paper or on stage, stand as a tribute to his enduring passion for literature and his unwavering commitment to exploring the depths of the human soul.
HAVE I GOT SOMETHING TO TELL YOU
AUTHOR: Malachi Edwin Vethamani
PUBLISHER: Penguin Randomhouse SEA
234 pages
Available at all major bookstores.