It Matters Nothing — War Is War

A poem about the futility of war and growing indifference


Ashwani Kumar
Updated on: 23 March 2026

OUTLOOK INDIA

It Matters Nothing — War Is War Photo: Artwork by Anupriya



Another girl is dead, another boy wounded. It matters nothing—war is war.

The oven is quiet in my kitchen. A cup grows cold beside the window.


I take a bite of the shrinking day, light a candle, and bake myself in the open for those who are dying for coffee.


Strange coincidence: I no longer remember there are not many bakeries in town.


Is it the wrath of God, or a futile struggle for survival?


Another girl is dead, another boy wounded. It matters nothing—war is war.


Ashwani Kumar is a poet, writer and professor in Mumbai. His most recent collection of poems is titled Map of Memories.