Scalpel and Pen: Dr. Hema Latha’s Dual Journey of Healing and Writing (Part-1)
euphereadingIn this engaging DocScopy interview with Dr. Hemalatha, conducted by Dr. Nirainila Joseph from MedBound Times, we explore her dual passions for dentistry and writing. A graduate of Tamil Nadu Government Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, Dr. Hemalatha is not only a dedicated dentist but also a prolific Tamil poet.
She shares her journey as a writer, discussing her deep love for Tamil literature, her favorite poets, and the creative process that fuels her poetry. She also talks about her aspirations to expand her literary work beyond poems and into other languages, as well as her interest in incorporating dental themes into her writing. Dr. Hemalatha highlights how her dual passions for dentistry and writing complement each other, offering a unique perspective on how these two fields intertwine in her life.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Please introduce yourself to our readers.
Dr. Hema Latha: Hello, I am Dr. Hema Latha, a dental professional. I graduated with a BDS degree from GDC, Chennai in 2018 and currently work as a dentist in Chennai. I am planning and making progress toward opening my own dental clinic soon in Velachery, Chennai. I am also working as a Claims Deputy Manager at Star Health and Allied Insurance, Chennai. Additionally, I freelance as a writer for Tamil magazines and anthologies.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Your profile is truly impressive, Dr. Hema Latha. We really interested to learn more about how you manage these diverse roles in this interview. What initially drew you to pursue dentistry as a profession? What aspects of dentistry do you find most rewarding?
Dr. Hema Latha: I am the first healthcare professional in my family, so at initial stages I didn't have much knowledge about the dental profession. But as soon as I entered GDC Chennai, I learned so many aspects of dentistry and its importance to overall health and external appearance, which further drew me into the profession. At the end of the day, the major reward I get from the profession is relieving pain and seeing people smile.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: When did you begin writing Tamil poems? What inspires you to write?
Dr. Hema Latha: I started to write in my childhood. I remember writing a poem about nature in my 5th grade and getting state-level rank for that. It was a beautiful childhood memory. Also, I got a Bharathiyar Kavithaigal book as a prize from that competition, which is one of the best books in Tamil. The inspiration comes from my father. He reads a lot; he introduced me to crime novels even before introducing school.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: With your early accolades and your father’s literary influence, what can you tell us about the unique style and themes you frequently explore in your Tamil poetry?
Dr. Hema Latha: My poems mostly focus on rich imagery, symbolism, and themes of love, nature, and social justice. Imagination is the base of poetry, which gives the reader taste. Using metaphors is one of my favourite styles; this expands your limitations. I believe everything in the universe is connected, and when we connect, it just enhances their essence. Most of the freedom fighters used their pen to spread social awareness through poetry. I try to adopt modern-day social problems in my poetry to show different perspectives.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: That's very interesting! Could you describe your creative process when writing Tamil poems?
Dr. Hema Latha: Whenever I read or study something about a topic of interest, I usually have a spark. I immediately write whatever comes to mind; the conceptualization of an idea is the main thing. Later, I use imagination, metaphors, and suitable words to express that idea.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: As someone deeply immersed in Tamil literature, are there any famous Tamil poets or literary works that have influenced your own writing?
Dr. Hema Latha: Yes, I like Bharathiyar, Na. Muthukumar, and Kalki.
Bharathiyar's poetry is a testament to his passion for India's independence and his advocacy for women's rights, education, and social reform. His works continue to inspire generations of readers and poets. Bharathiyar's feminist ideology was well ahead of his time, and his love for Tamil has inspired me a lot.
Kalki Krishnamurti is a poet and journalist. I am a fan of his historical books. The amount of detail and his research work behind those details are impressive and inspirational.
Na. Muthukumar is a famous lyricist and poet in Tamil; he is also a science student. He did his undergrad in physics and post-graduation in Tamil literature. He wrote throughout his life, and his passion for Tamil and Tamil literature has influenced me to think about poetry as a career option.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: You have discussed the influence of various Tamil poets, but how does the Tamil language and culture itself inspire your poetry?
Dr. Hema Latha: Tamil culture and poetry are deeply intertwined, reflecting and influencing each other in many ways. Poetry is a part of ancient Tamil people's day-to-day life. Tamil poetry is rich in imagery, drawing from the natural beauty of Tamil Nadu. I express the emotions and sentiments of Tamil culture in my poetry.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Do you find that writing poetry serves as a creative outlet that helps you manage the stress of your dental practice and day to day life?
Dr. Hema Latha: Yes, it is. Not only poems, but any art has the ability to reduce stress. Reading and writing poetry improves focus and presence. Poems provide an outlet for emotions, helping to process and release feelings. For me, writing poetry is a healthy distraction from stressful thoughts and worries.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Have you ever considered incorporating themes related to dentistry into your poetry? Do you have any aspirations to use your poetry to raise awareness about dental health issues in the Tamil community?
Dr. Hema Latha: Yes, I tried to incorporate themes related to dentistry into my poems. Poems will be helpful for raising awareness. But as far as health care is concerned, we should be as clear-cut as possible and elaborate as possible. So the blog, videos, or podcasts will be more suitable, so in the future, I will try to raise awareness through essays, podcasts, or videos.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: That sounds like a wonderful plan, Dr. Hema Latha. We’re definitely looking forward to seeing how you use these platforms to raise awareness and make a positive impact in the field of oral healthcare. Have you found any surprising overlaps or connections between the skills required for dentistry and those needed for poetry? How do these complement each other in your professional development?
Dr. Hema Latha: Soft communication skills One of the most important things I learned from poetry is soft communication skills. Communicating ideas clearly and concisely is very helpful in communicating with patients. Using appropriate pitch and tone to convey treatment procedures to avoid unnecessary fear for patients Using appropriate words is important in both the profession and using metaphors. In pedodontics, we call it euphemism, using indirect words with children to avoid unpleasantness.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Your ability to translate the subtlety and sensitivity of poetry into your professional interactions is remarkable. I am sure your patients would benefit greatly from this approach. Now, how do you perceive the intersection between dentistry, a scientific field, and poetry, an art form? How do they influence each other in your life?
Dr. Hema Latha: Dentistry and poetry may seem like vastly different fields, but they both require attention to detail, creativity, and a passion for helping others. Dental treatment experiences, like toothaches or braces, serve as metaphors for life's challenges and growth. Dentistry inspired me to write poetry about the beauty of smiles, the importance of oral health, and the connection between dental care and overall well-being.
Stay tuned for Part - 2!
