Beyond the Blockade

Ketmanee’s neoteric collection of poetry and prose about growth exploring the dualities of identity, desire, sexuality, and manifestations of the ego. Structured as a poetic symphony, the book further invokes passionate musings of pain and time.


Featuring complementary ink illustrations from up-and-coming artist Michael Barr Waltz, the book dissects provocative and existential motifs of life as seen and experienced through the eyes and body of a young lover. The collection is divided into five distinct movements symbolizing different periods of growth and reflection – Overture, Clavier Sonata, Scarlet Suite, Pathétique Lamentoso, Coda – that are used to underscore and amplify a visceral narrative.