This is a collection of Bengali short stories and poems by some renowned as well as fledgling and experimental writers. The reader will find an accurate and modern translation of their works which have maintained their startling originality of theme and language. The themes of the stories and poems are wide ranging. They deal with-rural life, mother-daughter relationship, love, marriage and struggle in the face of overwhelming odds. The selections include sensitive writings which will lead the reader into a world shaped by tradition and patriarchy and should illuminate the conditions in which women write and a sense of the themes and literary modes they draw on or make use of.