Dharrsheena Raja Segarran

Dear Dharrsheena

When I first joined Vocal Media, my only plan was to write music reviews. I figured I’d share thoughts on albums, reflect on lyrics, maybe explore some connections to artists I admire. Sure, I’d written a few poems here and there over the years, but poetry wasn’t what I thought I’d be doing here. Then I stumbled upon *Abyssopelagic*—the first of your works I’d ever read. And that story changed everything.

I still remember the thrill of reading it, the way your words practically pulled me under, much like the waves in your story. The raw tension, the unexpected twists, and that deep emotional undercurrent left me spellbound. I was entirely wrapped up in the story’s mystery and heartbreak, and in the way you brought every character vividly to life. By the end, I knew that Vocal could be so much more than just a place to analyze music. You made me see that it could be a canvas for the kind of stories that stir people to their core.

Your writing has a rare intensity that gets under your skin. It’s not just that the twists in *Abyssopelagic* left me breathless; it’s also the way you bring out the complexities of relationships and human emotions. You capture betrayal, grief, and longing in such an honest, fearless way. It’s as though you hold nothing back, allowing us a window into the deepest parts of your characters’ minds and hearts. Reading your stories made me realize that I, too, could explore those hidden corners of my own mind and try my hand at storytelling that feels just as honest.

And it wasn’t just *Abyssopelagic* that had this effect on me. I began looking for more of your work and came across pieces like *Psychomachia*, with its razor-sharp edges and fearless approach to relationships. In every poem and story you write, there’s a truthfulness that shines through, even when the subject matter is painful or dark. Lines like,

“I failed to notice that a neon sign / Above my head blinked ‘disposable,’

made me pause. They’re the kinds of lines that haunt you long after you finish reading, because they hold such a raw and universal truth. You write about things people don’t always want to confront, but you do it with a bravery that is, quite honestly, contagious.

Beyond your talent as a writer, you are an incredible force of encouragement on Vocal. You are always the first to congratulate someone on their successes, whether they’ve gotten a Top Story, been featured, or reached a personal milestone. I see your comments on so many writers’ posts—each one thoughtful, supportive, and full of kindness. You seem to genuinely want everyone around you to succeed and grow, and that kind of support is priceless. You’re not just a talented writer; you’re a cornerstone of this community. So many people look up to you and feel grateful for your presence here, and I’m no exception.

I’ll never forget that you were the very first person to congratulate me when I won runner-up in the spooky micro challenge. That gesture meant so much to me. The excitement and kindness in your words made that accomplishment feel even more special, reminding me how much a simple acknowledgment from someone can mean. You’ve created a ripple effect, where your joy for others encourages us all to support one another in the same way.

I also admire how you’re there for new writers who are just getting started, helping them find their footing and letting them know that their voice matters. Your encouragement makes a real difference for people, especially those who may feel nervous about sharing their work or uncertain about their talent. You make us all feel a little braver and a little less alone. It’s amazing to see someone as gifted as you lifting others up, as well as contributing your own remarkable writing to this space.

Thank you, Dharrsheena, for being the kind of writer who takes risks and tells the stories that need to be told, no matter what. And thank you for being the person who shows up every day with encouragement, positivity, and a belief in others. Vocal Media is a better place because of you, and I know I’m not the only one who feels this way. I’m so grateful that I found *Abyssopelagic* and, through it, found my way to you and your work.

You’ve shown me that Vocal can be a space for creativity, honesty, and growth. I joined Vocal to talk about music, but because of you, I’ve begun to see it as a place to tell my own stories, to reach a little deeper, and to challenge myself. You have no idea how much that means to me, and to so many others here.