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Emojis speak where texting falls short


Emojis transform otherwise bland exchanges into vibrant and meaningful interactions
Emojis transform otherwise bland exchanges into vibrant and meaningful interactions

I am a huge fan of emoticons, or emojis, as I prefer to call them. In a new, technically robust world that chooses to conduct most of its private and professional business digitally, the existence of emojis is a lot more valuable than what they seems primary. Emojis fill the gap between one’s feelings [thoughts] and words; they arch over the space where misunderstandings breed unintentionally. The trouble with texting is it, more often than not, conveys meanings not meant. The true import of the statements is often dispensed with an unsavoury blandness. Words, for all the power they have, are restricted in their ability to convey true emotions. There is no tone or tenor in a conversation that happens over a typed chat. It is here that the emojis take charge to let people know the precise sentiment behind the words. It’s fascinating how something as simple as a tiny, colourful image can carry the weight of an entire conversation.

Emojis have become the silent saviours of our digital dialogues, transforming what could be a dry exchange into something vibrant, relatable and meaningful. I have always believed that words, despite their richness, sometimes falter in delivering the exact shade of sentiment we wish to express. How many times have we sent a message and then wondered; Will they get what I mean? Will they feel my warmth, my concern, or my light-heartedness? Emojis step in at this point, like little emotional cue cards, guiding the recipient towards the intended feeling behind our words.

A simple smiley can transform a blunt response into a kind reassurance. It acts as a gentle nudge, hinting to the reader, “Take it easy; this is friendly.” Emojis allow us to soften the blows of formality, sprinkle humour on otherwise serious subjects, or underline the gravity of what would otherwise seem trivial. Consider this: You’ve sent a message that says, “Let’s talk later.” Now, depending on the mood of the person on the other side, it could be read as indifferent, abrupt, or even ominous. But if you add a little smiley at the end, the vibe changes entirely. Suddenly, it sounds casual, almost warm. This is the magic of emojis — they are the unseen bridges in our communication, preventing misunderstandings. They fill in the emotional blanks that text leaves behind. In this world where we don’t always get the luxury of hearing someone’s voice or seeing their expressions, emojis have quietly become the body language of our conversations. They provide a way to infuse our cold, typed words with a cozy connection. That’s where their real value lies, and why I, as someone deeply in love with words and their power, have come to appreciate the humble emoji. Moreover, in a globally connected world where language barriers can stand between intent and interpretation, emojis offer a universal code. A thumbs-up or a heart means the same whether you’re in Dubai or Delhi, making them incredibly effective in fostering inclusivity and understanding.

As I continue my writing journey, both in traditional and digital spaces, I find myself more often turning to emojis to complement my words, especially when texting or communicating over social media. They are the small, unspoken allies in my digital interactions, helping me stay connected, relatable, and, most importantly, understood. In a time when misunderstandings are as quick as a keystroke, I’ve come to appreciate emojis as more than just playful symbols. They are, in many ways, the unsung heroes of modern communication, making sure that what we feel and what we say are in sync. And that’s a role too important to ignore.

 
 
 

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Welcome to my Website

I am a Dubai-based author and children's writing coach, with over two decades of experience in storytelling, journalism, and creative mentorship.

My work delves into the intricacies of human emotions, relationships, and the quiet moments that shape our lives. Through my writing, I aim to illuminate the profound beauty in everyday experiences.

I am known for my poignant weekly columns in Khaleej Times, Dubai, The Daily Pioneer, India and books like After the RainThat Pain in the Womb, Sandstorms, Summer Rains, and A Hundred Sips.

As a children's writing coach and motivational speaker, I empower young minds to unlock their potential. My diverse qualifications and passion for writing and mentoring drive my mission to inspire and transform lives through the written word.

I have written seven books across different genres.

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The Writer

....Stories are not pieces of fiction.

They are the quintessence of human lives and their raw emotions....

My unique writing style has won me a devoted following. The stories I write resonate deeply with readers, capturing the characters' emotions and evoking strong sentiments. As a columnist, I have written hundreds of insightful articles, earning me a new identity as a writer who touches lives with words. My stories, shared on my blog and WhatsApp broadcast group Filter Coffee with Asha are known for their emotional depth and relatability.

My debut novel, Sandstorms, Summer Rains, was among the earliest fictional explorations of the Indian diaspora in the Gulf and has recently been featured in a PhD thesis on Gulf Indian writing. 

Coaching Philosophy 

...Writers are not born.

They are created by the power of human thought...

As a children’s and young-adult writing coach of nearly 25 years, I believe that writers are nurtured, not born. I help students and aspiring authors overcome mental blocks, discover their voice, and bring their stories to life. In 2020, I founded i Bloom Hub, empowering young minds through storytelling, and in 2023, I was honored with the Best Children’s Coach award by Indian Women in Dubai.

Youth 
Motivational Speaker

...Life, to me, is being aware of and embracing each moment there is... 

Publications / Works

Reader Testimonials 

I have read almost all the creative works of Asha Iyer. A variety of spread served in a lucid language, with ease of expression makes

her works a very relatable read. There is always a very subtle balance of emotion, reality, practicality and values. A rare balance indeed. I always eagerly wait for her next.

Maitryee Gopalakrishnan

Educationist

Asha Iyer Kumar's writing is dynamic. It has a rare combination of myriad colours and complexities.  There is a natural brilliance to her craft and her understanding of human emotions is impeccable. The characters in her story are true to life, and her stories carry an inherent ability to linger on, much after they end.  

Varunika Rajput

Author & Blogger

Asha Iyer's spontaneity of thoughts and words are manifest in the kaleidoscopic range of topics she covered in the last

two decades in opinion columns. The

soulful narrative she has developed

over the years is so honest it pulls

at the reader's heartstrings.​

Suresh Pattali

Executive Editor, Khaleej Times​

 

I have inspired audiences at institutions such as Oakridge International School (Bangalore), New Indian Model School (Dubai), GEMS Modern Academy (Dubai), and Nirmala College for Women (Coimbatore), encouraging them to embrace their narratives and find purpose through writing.

​​

Books:

  • Sand Storms, Summer Rains (2009) — Novel on the Indian diaspora in the Gulf.

  • Life is an Emoji (2020) — A compilations of Op-Ed columns published in Khaleej Times

  • After the Rain (2019) — Short Stories

  • That Pain in the Womb (2022) — Short Stories

  • A Hundred Sips (2024) — Essays exploring life’s quiet revelations

  • Hymns from the Heart (2015) — Reflective prose and poetry

  • Scratched: A journey through loss, love, and healing (forthcoming memoir)​

Columns & Articles:

  • Weekly columns for Khaleej Times (15 years) & features for their magazines till date

  • Opinion and reflective essays for The Daily Pioneer

​​

Coaching / i Bloom Hub​

i Bloom Hub:
Founded in 2020, i Bloom Hub nurtures creativity and self-expression in young writers. We focus on helping students, teens, and aspiring authors overcome mental blocks and develop confidence through storytelling.

Our unique methods have inspired many children and adults to embrace writing and discover their potential.

Since 2010, I have been offering online coaching, long before the pandemic. 

Asha's stories are like Alibaba's treasure

trove, turning readers into literary explorers

who compulsively dive into her offerings.

Her writings traverse a vast ocean of

human emotions and characters, often

leaving readers eagerly awaiting the next

episode. Having followed her work for a

while, I am continually amazed by her

insights into human behavior. More power

to her keyboard.

 

Vijendra Trighatia

Traveller, Writer & Photographer

Asha's stories and writings bring everyday characters to life, revealing intricate and curious stories. Her vivid portrayal of diverse places and cultures makes readers feel deeply connected. Asha's understanding of human emotions and psyche shines in her works like Sandstorms, Summer Rains and Life is an Emoji, where she blends her life philosophy with humour and elegance.

Anita Nair

IT Professional

Videos

©2024 by Asha Iyer 

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