Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, Nov. 21: The Tibetan translation of the internationally acclaimed novel We Measure the Earth with Our Bodies, authored by Tsering Yangzom Lama, was officially launched by the Dharamshala-based Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA) on Wednesday.
The original novel, written in English, garnered widespread praise for its compelling and profound exploration of Tibetan exile through the lens of a family spanning decades. It vividly depicts the uncertain and challenging life of a fractured Tibetan refugee family, first settling in a refugee camp in Nepal, and subsequently relocating to Canada. Throughout the book’s beginning, middle, and end, the author meticulously portrays painful fragments of a people’s historical experience after losing their homeland. The Tibetan edition, translated by Jampa Tenzin, was attended by members of the Tibetan literary community, researchers, and young readers who resonated deeply with the themes of the book.
During the launch event, Ven. Geshe Lhakdor, the director of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA), shared his reflections on the book. He revealed that when he first read the novel, he initially questioned whether it was a non-fictional account or a work of fiction. Upon delving deeper, he recognised the author’s masterful blending of both genres, skilfully creating characters through imaginative constructs.
Geshe Lhakdor highlighted the decade-long effort Tsering Yangzom devoted to the book. He shared that midway through her writing journey, the author considered abandoning the project, believing it to be futile. However, her determination prevailed, and she continued refining the narrative, drawing inspiration from thousands of books she read throughout the process. He expressed admiration for her perseverance and applauded her for producing an extraordinary story.
Tsering Yangzom Lama, during the launch of her book’s Tibetan translation, reflected on her creative process, emphasising that her intention was not to deliver profound messages but to explore her own motivations for writing. “I did not know why I was writing, but I was writing to find out why I was writing,” she explained.
She shared that the characters in her novel are rooted in the lives of ordinary Tibetans—her parents, relatives, and everyday people—not based on famous figures. “The world often overlooks the life stories of ordinary Tibetans, but I consider their experiences profoundly significant,” she noted. She explained her narrative seeks to shine a light on these untold stories. At the heart of her storytelling, Tsering expressed her belief that human life is inherently meaningful. “My aim was to delve deeply into the characters’ worlds, to explore and reveal their thoughts, emotions, joys, sorrows, and complex feelings,” she said.
Moreover, she stressed the importance of creating restraint when depicting historical and interpersonal violence (particularly in contexts as sensitive as Tibetan history). She highlighted that such struggles should not be treated as mere entertainment. “In my writing, I believe the authentic representation of these struggles must take precedence over dramatisation or sensationalism,” she explained.
Concluding her reflections, Tsering emphasised the celebratory aspect of her work. “The book should be a celebration of life. It should inspire people to want to live. We must go beyond telling stories of our sorrows and focus on our wisdom, intelligence, and love,” she remarked. She underscored how her novel encapsulates these values through characters who support and uplift one another, offering hope and humanity even amid adversity.
Speaking to media personnel about the differing reactions from global and Tibetan audiences, Tsering shared her delight in hearing from Tibetans who found comfort in her book. “Many Tibetans have told me they could deeply relate to the story on a personal level,” she said. In contrast, the global audience has reacted differently including Indians, often expressing surprise at the tragic experiences of Tibetans following the loss of their homeland. “Many readers outside the Tibetan community have admitted they were unaware of the real hardships Tibetans endured, though they knew Tibet as a nation existed,” she noted.
Speaking about the Tibetan translation of her book, Tsering Yangzom Lama expressed hope that it would encourage more Tibetans to engage with the story now that it is available in their native language. However, she acknowledged the challenges Tibetans inside Tibet may face in accessing the book. “I think it is very important for the stories of Tibetans to be told, narrated, and read,” she said. Reflecting on recent interactions, she added, “Over the past few weeks here in Dharamshala, I have met Tibetans who have read the book, and it felt good to know there is a growing Tibetan audience.”
Tsering also shared insights into her upcoming project, a book she has been researching and working on for the past three years. “I’m not sure if I’ll be able to complete it, but I’m doing my best to finish it,” she said. The book is set in the 11th century, a pivotal era during the second infusion of Tibetan Buddhism, coinciding with the life of Milarepa. This period followed the disintegration of the Tibetan empire, a time marked by significant upheaval but also remarkable developments. Reflecting on Tibet’s current challenges, she noted, “While it is a dark period for Tibet, history shows us that even in times of despair, good things can emerge.” She credited Milarepa, the revered poet and spiritual figure, as a profound source of inspiration for her upcoming book. “Milarepa’s life story taught me that no matter how dark the times, hope and goodness persist. His resilience and wisdom have inspired me deeply since childhood,” she shared, emphasising the enduring relevance of his teachings in her work.
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