An apparatus includes an input region having a high-refractive-index material and an input surface configured to receive light emitted from a laser. An output surface of the apparatus is configured to deliver energy to a recording medium. The apparatus includes a plasmonic waveguide having a first elongated portion at an angle to the input surface and configured to receive the light through the input region. In response to receiving the light, surface plasmons are excited and guided to an end of the first elongated portion. The plasmonic waveguide includes a second elongated portion coupled to the end of the first elongated portion and configured to guide the surface plasmons to the output surface.