Kozhikode: During his long literary life, M T Vasudevan Nair never pretended to be the proponent of any particular philosophy, even though he studied various kinds of thought. His stories never challenged the reader’s intelligence, but he did not ridicule writers who created such works.

‘Kaathikente Panippura’ and ‘Kaathikente Kala’ by MT were textbooks for young short-story writers.  MT told every aspiring short-story writer, “A writer should pray for words, which glow like new gold coins. On receiving such words, they have to be saved like the money kept by a miser in his bag tied with a tight knot.”

MT also had clear opinions on the stories of other writers, which he expressed openly. He wrote in ‘Kaathikente kala’, “Karoor’s stories will only have the items in a ‘pothichoru’ (meal packet). It is sufficient to overcome hunger and maintain your health.

Thakazhi creates a homely meal. Uroob’s offerings include certain dishes from the traditional ‘sadya’ (feast) that are tasty. However, several stories by Kesavadev give the impression of a hotel ‘sadya’ with some unnecessary dishes. After a while, even a hotel ‘sadya’ with random items leaves distaste.”

Even after becoming a legendary figure, MT continued to write classic works. He was glad that someone was engaged in reading somewhere and always expressed his gratitude to the ‘discerning reader.’

MT discovered numerous writers who later became legends themselves.  He eagerly read works by the latest entrants to the field and gave them respect. He was quick to correct people who alleged that the new generation of writers lacked talent. “Literature is a royal path. Numerous writers have passed along this path, and many have yet to come.

When new travellers reach this thoroughfare from the narrow by-lanes, all the solitary travellers can find comfort in knowing they are not alone. The feeling that you are not alone is exciting,” wrote MT. Over the years, MT discovered several writers and handheld them to the royal path. They include Mukundan, Punathil Kunjabdulla, Sethu, Zachariah and Subhash Chandran.

As co-editor of Mathrubhumi Weekly with N V Krishna Warrier, MT witnessed the poems of leading writers such as N N Kakkad being returned for corrections. He saw writers of such stature leaving the weekly’s office with their rejected works smiling and returning with the corrected copy. Later, as editor, MT, too, corrected many writers who soon made a mark for themselves.