“The Choir I Conduct” by Kenlumzailie Michui released in Kohima

KOHIMA — A book titled “The Choir I Conduct,” written by Kenlumzailie Michui, was released in Kohima on Saturday by the pastor of Zeme Baptist Church Kohima, Rev. Iringtie Kauring.

“The Choir I Conduct” is the 92nd publication from the Kohima-based PenThrill Publication House.

During the launch, first-time author Michui described the book as a collection of thoughts close to her heart, akin to a diary. She explained that the main themes explored include life, facing reality, death, and denial. Michui likened the collection to a child learning to adapt to new experiences.

Michui, a master’s graduate in English from North Eastern Hill University, had always aspired to be a published author.

In her speech, Vishu Rita Krocha, publisher of PenThrill Publication House, noted that while poetry has been written since time immemorial, it has unfortunately not always received the appreciation it deserves.

“The general notion is that people don’t understand poetry either here or across the world. But it isn’t really that hard to understand if you give poetry a chance,” she said.

Krocha mentioned that each poetry manuscript they receive serves as a reminder of the Nagas’ oral literary tradition, where their ancestors sang for every occasion.

“In continuing to write poetry, I think we are keeping alive the lyrical expressions of our forefathers,” she said.

“The Choir I Conduct” is edited by D Paolo Nukhu, who also designed the book’s cover.