Black Roses and Other Poems and Short Stories : 9781426938931 : 10 Aug 2010 : "Black Roses and Other Poems and Short Stories" challenges readers to view the world from a new perspective. The collection of free verse poetry, haiku, and short stories delves into transcendent themes such as truth, beauty, and free will. Author Chandanie D. Hiralal explores the convergence and juxtaposition of apparent binaries like death and life, darkness and light. Although the themes may be dark at times, Hiralal's word play infuses a touch of levity. Hiralal draws upon the Japanese language and Vedic teachings for inspiration. "Mizu," meaning water in Japanese, reflects this influence and points to the primacy of nature in her work. "Mizu They jump up and down. Like friends, they stand together. They die with the sun."