Mall Watch- Write in the Middle: II

Email

Whatsapp

Facebook

Pinterest

Twitter

Copy link

Shri Rajbir Singh Deswal richly deserves this compliment. He has matured into a seasoned writer.

To be a policeman and venturing into the field of writing is an uphill task. Whenever one embarks on a path different from the accepted role of a chosen professional job, there is an automatic resistance from the peers and seniors. Resistance takes many forms, from mild mannered left handed compliments to behind the back snide remarks and occasional open disapproving comments from seniors. In a regimented police organisation, known for straitjacketed approach, Rajbir picked- up the gauntlet. My salute to him. He is now looked upon by police fraternity as a writer of substance. His presence evokes spontaneous recognition, respect if not awe. Many envy him, and some others are searching the writer in them to follow in his footsteps.

Unlike retired Army generals, it is unusual to U see a serving officer in the IPS to come out in print.

Rajbir Deswal has not written a book*. What he has done is to make a selection from the 600 or so middles he has written over the years in our leading newspapers and bring them out in book form.

Someone once asked me what it takes to write a readable middle to which my reply was, 'the ability to write good, plain English and plenty of imagination.

'Write as you would talk' said Somerset Maugham, the greatest story- writer 20th century England had produced, 'Avoid the ornate'.

Rajbir has come up to both marks. Reading his middles provide a pleasant pastime. Some of them are really hilarious. I quote from the one entitled The Mall Watch' relating, obviously to the Mall in Mussoorie. He and his pals take up strategic positions of the road and target couples out for their evening constitutionals to study their behaviour patterns.