Lakshman by Toru Dutt Analysis
Stanza 1
“Hark! Lakshman! Hark, again that cry!
It is,–it is my husband’s voice!
Oh hasten, to his succour fly,
No more hast thou, dear friend, a choice.
He calls on thee, perhaps his foes
Environ him on all sides round,
That wail,–it means death’s final throes!
Why standest thou, as magic-bound?
Explanation: These lines are from the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt, which is based on the Indian epic, Ramayana. In this part of the poem, Sita, the wife of Rama, hears a cry that she believes is her husband’s. She is urging Lakshman, Rama’s brother, to go to Rama’s aid.
“Hark! Lakshman! Hark, again that cry! It is,–it is my husband’s voice!”: Sita hears a cry and immediately recognizes it as Rama’s voice. The repetition of “Hark” emphasizes her urgency and concern.
“Oh hasten, to his succour fly, No more hast thou, dear friend, a choice.”: Sita urges Lakshman to hurry to Rama’s aid. She tells him that he no longer has a choice in the matter, implying the severity of the situation.
“He calls on thee, perhaps his foes Environ him on all sides round,”: Sita speculates that Rama might be surrounded by enemies. This line paints a picture of Rama being in a dangerous situation.
“That wail,–it means death’s final throes!”: Sita interprets the cry as a sign of Rama’s impending death. The term “death’s final throes” refers to the last struggling moments before death, intensifying the sense of danger and urgency.
“Why standest thou, as magic-bound?”: Sita questions why Lakshman is standing still as if he’s bound by magic. This line expresses her frustration and confusion at Lakshman’s inaction in the face of Rama’s perceived danger.
Overall, these lines depict a tense and urgent situation where Sita is desperately seeking help for her husband, Rama, from his brother, Lakshman. The emotional intensity and the vivid imagery used by the poet effectively convey the gravity of the situation.
Poetic devices
Repetition: The word “Hark” is repeated to emphasize the urgency of the situation and Sita’s desperate plea for help.
Simile: The phrase “as magic-bound” is a simile used to describe Lakshman’s state of inaction despite Sita’s pleas. It suggests that he is under some spell that prevents him from moving.
Personification: Death is personified in the phrase “death’s final throes,” suggesting that death is a force capable of action. This adds to the sense of danger and urgency in the stanza.
Stanza 2
“Is this a time for thought,–oh gird
Thy bright sword on, and take thy bow!
He heeds not, hears not any word,
Evil hangs over us, I know!
Swift in decision, prompt in deed,
Brave unto rashness, can this be,
The man to whom all looked at need?
Is it my brother, that I see!
Explanation: These lines continue the dialogue between Sita and Lakshman in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Sita is expressing her frustration and disbelief at Lakshman’s hesitation to rush to Rama’s aid.
“Is this a time for thought,–oh gird Thy bright sword on, and take thy bow!”: Sita is urging Lakshman to take immediate action. She believes that this is not a time for contemplation but for swift action. She tells him to arm himself with his sword and bow, symbols of his warrior status.
“He heeds not, hears not any word, Evil hangs over us, I know!”: Sita observes that Lakshman is not paying attention to her pleas and is not responding to her words. She senses impending danger (“Evil hangs over us”).
“Swift in decision, prompt in deed, Brave unto rashness, can this be, The man to whom all looked at need?”: Sita is questioning Lakshman’s character. She remembers him as someone who was quick to make decisions, prompt in action, and brave, even to the point of being rash. She wonders if this hesitant man is the same person whom everyone relied upon in times of need.
“Is it my brother, that I see!”: This line expresses Sita’s disbelief and disappointment. She is finding it hard to reconcile the image of the brave and decisive Lakshman she knew with the hesitant man she is seeing now.
Overall, these lines highlight Sita’s desperation and disappointment, and they further intensify the emotional conflict in the poem. The poet uses this dialogue to explore themes of duty, courage, and loyalty in the face of crisis.
Poetic devices
Rhetorical Question: Sita uses rhetorical questions (“Is this a time for thought?”, “Is it my brother, that I see!”) to express her disbelief and frustration.
Alliteration: The repetition of the ‘h’ sound in “heeds not, hears not” adds emphasis to Sita’s perception that Lakshman is not paying attention to her pleas.
Metaphor: The phrase “evil hangs over us” is a metaphor indicating the impending danger that Sita senses.
Stanza 3
“Ah no, and I must run alone,
For further here I cannot stay;
Art thou transformed to blind dumb stone!
Wherefore this impious, strange delay!
That cry,–that cry,–it seems to ring
Still in my ears,–I cannot bear
Suspense; if help we fail to bring
His death at least we both can share.”
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Sita expresses her determination to go and help Rama herself, as she can no longer bear the suspense and Lakshman’s inaction.
“Ah no, and I must run alone, For further here I cannot stay;”: Sita decides that if Lakshman will not go to help Rama, she will do so herself. She feels she cannot stay where she is any longer while Rama might be in danger.
“Art thou transformed to blind dumb stone! Wherefore this impious, strange delay!”: Sita questions Lakshman’s inaction, comparing him to a “blind dumb stone”. She finds his delay in responding to the situation strange and impious (disrespectful).
“That cry,–that cry,–it seems to ring Still in my ears,–I cannot bear Suspense;”: Sita is haunted by the cry she believes to be Rama’s. The suspense of not knowing what has happened to him is unbearable for her.
“if help we fail to bring His death at least we both can share.”: Sita resolves that if they fail to bring help to Rama, they should at least share his fate, i.e., death. This line underscores Sita’s deep love for Rama and her readiness to share his fate, whatever it may be.
Overall, these lines highlight Sita’s courage, determination, and deep love for Rama. Despite her fear and anxiety, she is ready to face any danger to help Rama.
Poetic devices
Metaphor: Sita compares Lakshman to a “blind dumb stone”, using a metaphor to express her frustration at his inaction.
Repetition: The phrase “That cry,–that cry,–” is repeated, emphasizing the urgency and the impact the cry has had on Sita.
Hyperbole: The statement “His death at least we both can share” is a hyperbole that underscores Sita’s deep love for Rama and her willingness to die with him.
Stanza 4
“Oh calm thyself, Videhan Queen,
No cause is there for any fear,
Hast thou his prowess never seen?
Wipe off for shame that dastard tear!
What being of demonian birth
Could ever brave his mighty arm?
Is there a creature on the earth
That dares to work our hero harm?
Explanation: These lines are Lakshman’s response to Sita in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Lakshman is trying to reassure Sita and alleviate her fears about Rama’s safety.
“Oh calm thyself, Videhan Queen, No cause is there for any fear,”: Lakshman addresses Sita as “Videhan Queen”, referring to her origin from the Videha kingdom. He urges her to calm herself and assures her that there is no reason to fear.
“Hast thou his prowess never seen? Wipe off for shame that dastard tear!”: Lakshman reminds Sita of Rama’s prowess and questions if she has never witnessed it. He tells her to wipe away her tears, implying that they are unworthy of her and the situation.
“What being of demonian birth Could ever brave his mighty arm?”: Lakshman asserts Rama’s strength, questioning what demon could ever dare to face him. This is a rhetorical question emphasizing Rama’s invincibility.
“Is there a creature on the earth That dares to work our hero harm?”: Again, Lakshman uses a rhetorical question to highlight Rama’s might. He implies that no creature on earth would dare to harm Rama.
Overall, these lines reflect Lakshman’s faith in Rama’s strength and his attempt to comfort Sita. Despite the tense situation, Lakshman remains confident in Rama’s abilities and tries to impart this confidence to Sita.
Poetic devices
Rhetorical Question: Lakshman uses rhetorical questions (“Hast thou his prowess never seen?”, “What being of demonian birth Could ever brave his mighty arm?”, “Is there a creature on the earth That dares to work our hero harm?”) to emphasize Rama’s strength and valor, and to challenge Sita’s fears.
Metaphor: The phrase “being of demonian birth” is a metaphor for powerful and malevolent enemies, used to highlight Rama’s formidable strength.
Stanza 5
“The lion and the grisly bear
Cower when they see his royal look,
Sun-staring eagles of the air
His glance of anger cannot brook,
Pythons and cobras at his tread
To their most secret coverts glide,
Bowed to the dust each serpent head
Erect before in hooded pride.
Explanation: These lines continue Lakshman’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Lakshman is emphasizing Rama’s formidable power and the fear he instills in even the most fearsome creatures.
“The lion and the grisly bear Cower when they see his royal look,”: Lakshman states that even the fiercest animals, like the lion and the bear, cower in fear at the sight of Rama’s royal look. This metaphorically highlights Rama’s commanding presence and authority.
“Sun-staring eagles of the air His glance of anger cannot brook,”: Even eagles, known for their ability to stare at the sun, cannot bear Rama’s angry glance. This emphasizes the intensity and power of Rama’s gaze.
“Pythons and cobras at his tread To their most secret coverts glide,”: The most venomous snakes, pythons and cobras, hide in their secret lairs at the sound of Rama’s footsteps. This illustrates the fear Rama instills in even the most dangerous creatures.
“Bowed to the dust each serpent head Erect before in hooded pride.”: Even the proud serpents bow their heads to the dust in Rama’s presence, further emphasizing his dominance and power.
Overall, these lines use vivid imagery and metaphors to portray Rama’s formidable power and the respect and fear he commands in all creatures. This serves to reassure Sita of Rama’s ability to handle any danger.
Poetic devices
Metaphor: The animals mentioned in the stanza (lion, bear, eagle, python, cobra) are metaphors for powerful and dangerous enemies. Their submission to Rama symbolizes his victory over such foes.
Stanza 6
“Rakshases, Danavs, demons, ghosts,
Acknowledge in their hearts his might,
And slink to their remotest coasts,
In terror at his very sight.
Evil to him! Oh fear it not,
Whatever foes against him rise!
Banish for aye, the foolish thought,
And be thyself,–bold, great, and wise.
Explanation: These lines continue Lakshman’s reassurances to Sita in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Lakshman is emphasizing Rama’s power over supernatural beings and urging Sita to be brave and wise.
“Rakshases, Danavs, demons, ghosts, Acknowledge in their hearts his might,”: Lakshman states that all supernatural beings, including Rakshasas (demonic beings), Danavs (a race of giants or demons), demons, and ghosts, acknowledge Rama’s power in their hearts. This further emphasizes Rama’s supreme power and authority.
“And slink to their remotest coasts, In terror at his very sight.”: These beings retreat to their remotest hiding places in fear at just the sight of Rama. This illustrates the extent of the fear Rama instills in his enemies.
“Evil to him! Oh fear it not, Whatever foes against him rise!”: Lakshman assures Sita that she should not fear any harm coming to Rama, no matter what enemies rise against him. This line reflects Lakshman’s unwavering faith in Rama’s abilities.
“Banish for aye, the foolish thought, And be thyself,–bold, great, and wise.”: Lakshman urges Sita to banish her fears and to be her true self – bold, great, and wise. He encourages her to have faith in Rama and in herself.
Overall, these lines highlight Lakshman’s faith in Rama’s power and his attempts to reassure and encourage Sita.
Poetic devices
Metaphor: The supernatural beings mentioned in the stanza (Rakshasas, Danavs, demons, ghosts) are metaphors for powerful and malevolent enemies. Their fear and retreat symbolize Rama’s victory over such foes.
Consonance: The repetition of the ‘s’ sound in “Rakshasas, Danavs, demons, ghosts” adds a rhythmic effect to the verse.
Stanza 7
“He call for help! Canst thou believe
He like a child would shriek for aid
Or pray for respite or reprieve–
Not of such metal is he made!
Delusive was that piercing cry,–
Some trick of magic by the foe;
He has a work,–he cannot die,
Beseech me not from hence to go.
Explanation: These lines are Lakshman’s response to Sita’s pleas in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Lakshman is expressing his disbelief that Rama would call for help and suggesting that the cry they heard might be a trick by their enemies.
“He call for help! Canst thou believe He like a child would shriek for aid Or pray for respite or reprieve– Not of such metal is he made!”: Lakshman questions the idea that Rama would call for help like a child. He asserts that Rama is not made of such a weak “metal” that he would shriek for aid or pray for respite or reprieve. This reflects Lakshman’s belief in Rama’s strength and courage.
“Delusive was that piercing cry,– Some trick of magic by the foe;”: Lakshman suggests that the cry they heard was not real but a delusion, possibly a trick of magic by their enemies. This shows his suspicion and wariness.
“He has a work,–he cannot die, Beseech me not from hence to go.”: Lakshman asserts that Rama has a mission to fulfill and therefore cannot die. He asks Sita not to plead with him to leave their current location. This reflects his sense of duty and his faith in Rama’s destiny.
Overall, these lines highlight Lakshman’s faith in Rama’s strength and his skepticism about the cry they heard.
Poetic devices
Metaphor: The phrase “Not of such metal is he made” is a metaphor suggesting that Rama is made of strong, resilient material, symbolizing his courage and strength.
Stanza 8
“For here beside thee, as a guard
‘Twas he commanded me to stay,
And dangers with my life to ward
If they should come across thy way.
Send me not hence, for in this wood
Bands scattered of the giants lurk,
Who on their wrongs and vengeance brood,
And wait the hour their will to work.”
Explanation: These lines continue Lakshman’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Lakshman is explaining his duty to protect Sita and the reasons for his reluctance to leave her alone.
“For here beside thee, as a guard ‘Twas he commanded me to stay,”: Lakshman reminds Sita that Rama had commanded him to stay by her side as a guard. This shows his commitment to following Rama’s orders.
“And dangers with my life to ward If they should come across thy way.”: Lakshman expresses his readiness to protect Sita from any dangers that might come her way, even at the cost of his own life. This reflects his loyalty and dedication to his duty.
“Send me not hence, for in this wood Bands scattered of the giants lurk,”: Lakshman explains that the forest is dangerous as bands of giants are lurking around. He is concerned about leaving Sita alone in such a dangerous place.
“Who on their wrongs and vengeance brood, And wait the hour their will to work.”: Lakshman suggests that these giants are brooding over their wrongs and waiting for an opportunity to take revenge. This adds to the sense of danger and urgency in the situation.
Overall, these lines highlight Lakshman’s sense of duty, his concern for Sita’s safety, and the dangerous circumstances they are in.
Poetic devices
Alliteration: The repetition of the ‘w’ sound in “And wait the hour their will to work” adds a rhythmic effect to the verse.
Metaphor: The phrase “dangers with my life to ward” is a metaphor suggesting that Lakshman is willing to risk his life to protect Sita.
Stanza 9
“Oh shame! And canst thou make my weal
A plea for lingering! Now I know
What thou art Lakshman! And I feel
Far better were an open foe.
Art thou a coward? I have seen
Thy bearing in the battle-fray
Where flew the death-fraught arrows keen,
Else had I judged thee so to-day.
Explanation: These lines are Sita’s response to Lakshman in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Sita is expressing her disappointment and anger at Lakshman’s reluctance to leave her side and go to Rama’s aid.
“Oh shame! And canst thou make my weal A plea for lingering! Now I know What thou art Lakshman!”: Sita expresses her disappointment in Lakshman. She feels ashamed that he is using her well-being as an excuse to not go to Rama’s aid. She feels she now understands his true character.
“And I feel Far better were an open foe.”: Sita expresses that she would prefer an open enemy than a friend who does not come to aid in times of need. This reflects her deep sense of betrayal.
“Art thou a coward? I have seen Thy bearing in the battle-fray Where flew the death-fraught arrows keen,”: Sita questions Lakshman’s courage. She recalls his bravery in battle where deadly arrows were flying around.
“Else had I judged thee so to-day.”: Sita suggests that if she had not seen Lakshman’s bravery in battle, she would have judged him to be a coward based on his current actions.
Overall, these lines highlight Sita’s disappointment and anger at Lakshman’s inaction.
Poetic devices
Rhetorical Question: Sita uses rhetorical questions (“And canst thou make my weal A plea for lingering!”, “Art thou a coward?”) to express her disbelief and disappointment in Lakshman’s actions.
Stanza 10
“But then thy leader stood beside!
Dazzles the cloud when shines the sun,
Reft of his radiance, see it glide
A shapeless mass of vapours dun;
So of thy courage,–or if not,
The matter is far darker dyed,
What makes thee loth to leave this spot?
Is there a motive thou wouldst hide?
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of Sita’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Sita is expressing her doubts about Lakshman’s motives and questioning his courage.
“But then thy leader stood beside! Dazzles the cloud when shines the sun,”: Sita recalls the times when Lakshman was brave, but she suggests that it was because Rama, his leader, was beside him. She compares this to how a cloud dazzles when the sun shines on it.
“Reft of his radiance, see it glide A shapeless mass of vapours dun;”: Sita continues the metaphor, saying that without the sun’s radiance, the cloud becomes a shapeless mass of dull vapors. She implies that without Rama, Lakshman’s courage fades away.
“So of thy courage,–or if not, The matter is far darker dyed,”: Sita questions whether Lakshman’s courage is dependent on Rama’s presence. She also suggests that if this is not the case, then the situation might be even worse.
“What makes thee loth to leave this spot? Is there a motive thou wouldst hide?”: Sita questions why Lakshman is reluctant to leave her side and go to Rama’s aid. She suspects that he might have a hidden motive.
Overall, these lines highlight Sita’s doubts and suspicions about Lakshman’s motives and courage.
Poetic devices
Metaphor: Sita uses the metaphor of a cloud that loses its radiance without the sun to suggest that Lakshman’s courage fades without Rama’s presence.
Rhetorical Question: Sita uses rhetorical questions (“What makes thee loth to leave this spot? Is there a motive thou wouldst hide?”) to express her suspicion about Lakshman’s motives.
Stanza 11
“He perishes–well, let him die!
His wife henceforth shall be mine own!
Can that thought deep imbedded lie
Within thy heart’s most secret zone!
Search well and see! one brother takes
His kingdom,–one would take his wife!
A fair partition!–But it makes
Me shudder, and abhor my life.
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of Sita’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Sita is expressing her deepest fears and suspicions about Lakshman’s motives.
“He perishes–well, let him die! His wife henceforth shall be mine own!”: Sita voices a suspicion that Lakshman might want Rama to die so that he could claim Sita as his own. This is a harsh accusation, reflecting her distress and desperation.
“Can that thought deep imbedded lie Within thy heart’s most secret zone!”: Sita questions whether such a thought could be hidden deep within Lakshman’s heart. This line reveals her doubts and suspicions about Lakshman’s loyalty.
“Search well and see! one brother takes His kingdom,–one would take his wife!”: Sita refers to the fact that one brother (Bharata) has already taken Rama’s kingdom, and she fears that the other (Lakshman) might now be aiming to take his wife. This reflects her sense of betrayal and fear.
“A fair partition!–But it makes Me shudder, and abhor my life.”: Sita sarcastically calls this a “fair partition”. The thought of such a betrayal makes her shudder and hate her life. This line underscores her despair and disgust. Overall, these lines highlight Sita’s despair, suspicion, and fear.
Poetic devices
Irony: Sita uses irony when she refers to the division of Rama’s kingdom and wife between his brothers as a “fair partition”. Her actual sentiment is of disgust and abhorrence.
Rhetorical Question: Sita uses a rhetorical question (“Can that thought deep imbedded lie Within thy heart’s most secret zone!”) to express her suspicion about Lakshman’s motives.
Stanza 12
“Art thou in secret league with those
Who from his hope the kingdom rent?
A spy from his ignoble foes
To track him in his banishment?
And wouldst thou at his death rejoice?
I know thou wouldst, or sure ere now
When first thou heardst that well-known voice
Thou shouldst have run to aid, I trow.
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of Sita’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Sita is expressing her deepest suspicions about Lakshman’s loyalty and intentions.
“Art thou in secret league with those Who from his hope the kingdom rent?”: Sita questions whether Lakshman is secretly allied with those who took away Rama’s kingdom. This reflects her suspicion and mistrust.
“A spy from his ignoble foes To track him in his banishment?”: Sita further questions if Lakshman could be a spy sent by Rama’s enemies to track him during his exile. This accusation underscores her fear and desperation.
“And wouldst thou at his death rejoice?”: Sita asks if Lakshman would rejoice at Rama’s death. This is a harsh accusation, reflecting her distress and the strain of the situation.
“I know thou wouldst, or sure ere now When first thou heardst that well-known voice Thou shouldst have run to aid, I trow.”: Sita asserts that if Lakshman were loyal, he would have rushed to aid Rama as soon as he heard his cry. Her words reveal her disappointment in Lakshman’s inaction.
Overall, these lines highlight Sita’s despair, suspicion, and disappointment in Lakshman.
Poetic devices
Rhetorical Question: Sita uses rhetorical questions (“Art thou in secret league with those Who from his hope the kingdom rent? A spy from his ignoble foes To track him in his banishment? And wouldst thou at his death rejoice?”) to express her suspicion and accuse Lakshman of betrayal.
Alliteration: The repetition of the ‘t’ sound in “Art thou in secret league with those” adds a rhythmic effect to the verse.
Stanza 13
“Learn this,–whatever comes may come,
But I shall not survive my Love,–
Of all my thoughts here is the sum!
Witness it gods in heaven above.
If fire can burn, or water drown,
I follow him:–choose what thou wilt,
Truth with its everlasting crown,
Or falsehood, treachery, and guilt.
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of Sita’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Sita is expressing her unwavering devotion to Rama and her determination to follow him, no matter what happens.
“Learn this,–whatever comes may come, But I shall not survive my Love,–”: Sita declares that no matter what happens, she cannot live without her love, Rama. This shows her deep love and commitment to Rama.
“Of all my thoughts here is the sum! Witness it gods in heaven above.”: Sita states that this is the sum of all her thoughts and calls upon the gods in heaven to witness her declaration. This adds a solemn and serious tone to her words.
“If fire can burn, or water drown, I follow him:–choose what thou wilt,”: Sita asserts that even if she has to face fire or water (symbolizing dangers and hardships), she will follow Rama. She tells Lakshman to choose what he wants, implying that his choices will not affect her decision.
“Truth with its everlasting crown, Or falsehood, treachery, and guilt.”: Sita contrasts the eternal value of truth with the negative qualities of falsehood, treachery, and guilt. This could be seen as a subtle rebuke to Lakshman, suggesting that he should choose truth and loyalty over deceit and betrayal.
Overall, these lines highlight Sita’s unwavering devotion to Rama, her courage, and her moral integrity.
Poetic devices
Metaphor: The phrases “if fire can burn, or water drown” and “Truth with its everlasting crown” are metaphors. The first metaphor emphasizes the risks she’s willing to take to follow Rama, and the second metaphor symbolizes the honor and righteousness of her devotion.
Stanza 14
“Remain here, with a vain pretence
Of shielding me from wrong and shame,
Or go and die in his defence
And leave behind a noble name.
Choose what thou wilt,–I urge no more,
My pathway lies before me clear,
I did not know thy mind before,
I know thee now,–and have no fear.”
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of Sita’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Sita is expressing her resolve and giving Lakshman a choice.
“Remain here, with a vain pretence Of shielding me from wrong and shame,”: Sita tells Lakshman that he can choose to stay with her under the pretense of protecting her from harm and disgrace. She implies that his protection might be in vain.
“Or go and die in his defence And leave behind a noble name.”: Alternatively, Sita suggests that Lakshman could go and defend Rama, even if it means dying in the process. Doing so would leave behind a noble legacy.
“Choose what thou wilt,–I urge no more,”: Sita tells Lakshman to make his own choice. She declares that she will not plead with him any further.
“My pathway lies before me clear,”: Sita asserts that her path is clear to her. This shows her determination and resolve to follow her own path, regardless of Lakshman’s decision.
“I did not know thy mind before, I know thee now,–and have no fear.”: Sita states that she did not understand Lakshman’s mindset before, but she does now. She declares that she has no fear, indicating her newfound understanding and acceptance of the situation.
Overall, these lines highlight Sita’s courage, determination, and acceptance of the situation.
Poetic devices
Antithesis: Antithesis is a specific form of contrast where two opposite ideas are put together in a sentence to achieve a contrasting effect. For Example: “Remain here” versus “go and die” highlights the choice between inaction (and the false sense of security it brings) and action (with its associated risks but also honor).
Stanza 15
She said and proudly from him turned,–
Was this the gentle Sîta? No.
Flames from her eyes shot forth and burned,
The tears therein had ceased to flow.
“Hear me, O Queen, ere I depart,
No longer can I bear thy words,
They lacerate my inmost heart
And torture me, like poisoned swords.
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of the dialogue between Sita and Lakshman in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, the conversation takes a dramatic turn as Sita’s words deeply affect Lakshman.
“She said and proudly from him turned,– Was this the gentle Sîta? No.”: After expressing her thoughts and feelings, Sita turns away from Lakshman with pride. The poet questions if this is the gentle Sita they knew, implying a transformation in her character due to the intense situation.
“Flames from her eyes shot forth and burned, The tears therein had ceased to flow.”: Sita’s eyes are described as shooting forth flames, symbolizing her anger and determination. The fact that her tears have ceased to flow suggests that she has moved from a state of despair to one of resolve.
“Hear me, O Queen, ere I depart, No longer can I bear thy words,”: Lakshman addresses Sita as “Queen” and tells her that he can no longer bear her words. This shows that Sita’s accusations have deeply hurt him.
“They lacerate my inmost heart And torture me, like poisoned swords.”: Lakshman expresses that Sita’s words have wounded his heart and are torturing him like poisoned swords. This metaphor effectively conveys the pain and distress he is feeling.
Overall, these lines highlight the emotional intensity of the situation and the deep impact of Sita’s words on Lakshman.
Poetic devices
Metaphor: The phrases “Flames from her eyes shot forth and burned” and “They lacerate my inmost heart And torture me, like poisoned swords” are metaphors. The first metaphor symbolizes Sita’s anger and determination, and the second metaphor symbolizes the emotional pain Lakshman feels at Sita’s words.
Stanza 16
“Have I deserved this at thine hand?
Of lifelong loyalty and truth
Is this the meed? I understand
Thy feelings, Sîta, and in sooth
I blame thee not,–but thou mightst be
Less rash in judgement. Look! I go,
Little I care what comes to me
Wert thou but safe,–God keep thee so!
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of Lakshman’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Lakshman is expressing his hurt feelings and his resolve to go to Rama’s aid.
“Have I deserved this at thine hand? Of lifelong loyalty and truth Is this the meed?”: Lakshman questions if he deserves Sita’s harsh words and accusations despite his lifelong loyalty and truthfulness. The term “meed” refers to a deserved share or reward, indicating his feeling of injustice.
“I understand Thy feelings, Sîta, and in sooth I blame thee not,–but thou mightst be Less rash in judgement.”: Lakshman shows understanding towards Sita’s feelings and does not blame her. However, he suggests that she could be less rash in her judgement, indicating his belief that her accusations are hasty and unfounded.
“Look! I go, Little I care what comes to me”: Lakshman declares that he is going to Rama’s aid, showing his readiness to face any danger or consequence. This reflects his courage and selflessness.
“Wert thou but safe,–God keep thee so!”: Lakshman expresses his wish for Sita’s safety, showing his concern for her. He prays to God to keep her safe, reflecting his deep care and affection for her.
Overall, these lines highlight Lakshman’s hurt feelings, understanding, courage, and concern for Sita.
Poetic devices
Rhetorical Question: Lakshman uses a rhetorical question (“Have I deserved this at thine hand?”) to express his hurt and disbelief at Sita’s accusations.
Stanza 17
“In going hence I disregard
The plainest orders of my chief,
A deed for me,–a soldier,–hard
And deeply painful, but thy grief
And language, wild and wrong, allow
No other course. Mine be the crime,
And mine alone,–but oh, do thou
Think better of me from this time.
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of Lakshman’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Lakshman is expressing his inner conflict and decision to go against Rama’s orders for the sake of Sita’s peace of mind.
“In going hence I disregard The plainest orders of my chief,”: Lakshman acknowledges that by leaving to help Rama, he is disregarding Rama’s clear orders to stay and protect Sita. This shows his respect for Rama’s authority but also his willingness to disobey for a greater cause.
“A deed for me,–a soldier,–hard And deeply painful, but thy grief”: Lakshman admits that as a soldier, disobeying orders is a difficult and painful action for him. However, he is more affected by Sita’s grief and distress.
“And language, wild and wrong, allow No other course. Mine be the crime,”: Lakshman states that Sita’s grief-stricken and harsh words leave him no other choice but to go to Rama’s aid. He accepts the responsibility for this disobedience, indicating his readiness to face any consequences.
“And mine alone,–but oh, do thou Think better of me from this time.”: Lakshman asks Sita to think better of him from now on. This reflects his desire for Sita’s understanding and approval.
Overall, these lines highlight Lakshman’s inner conflict, his sense of duty, and his deep concern for Sita’s well-being.
Poetic devices
Enjambment: “In going hence I disregard / The plainest orders of my chief,” The sentence flows seamlessly from the first line to the second without a pause, emphasizing the continuity of thought and action. This technique adds to the urgency and immediacy of the speaker’s confession, as if the words are pouring out in a stream of consciousness.
Stanza 18
“Here with an arrow, lo, I trace
A magic circle ere I leave,
No evil thing within this space
May come to harm thee or to grieve.
Step not, for aught, across the line,
Whatever thou mayst see or hear,
So shalt thou balk the bad design
Of every enemy I fear.
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of Lakshman’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Lakshman is taking measures to protect Sita before he leaves to go to Rama’s aid.
“Here with an arrow, lo, I trace A magic circle ere I leave,”: Lakshman uses his arrow to draw a magic circle around Sita before he leaves. This magic circle is meant to protect her from any harm.
“No evil thing within this space May come to harm thee or to grieve.”: Lakshman assures Sita that no evil can enter the magic circle and cause her harm or sorrow. This shows his concern for her safety.
“Step not, for aught, across the line, Whatever thou mayst see or hear,”: Lakshman instructs Sita not to step out of the magic circle, no matter what she might see or hear. This is a precaution to ensure her safety.
“So shalt thou balk the bad design Of every enemy I fear.”: Lakshman expresses his hope that by staying within the circle, Sita will be able to thwart the plans of any enemies. This reflects his protective instincts and his fear of potential threats.
Overall, these lines highlight Lakshman’s protective measures, his concern for Sita’s safety, and his readiness to face any danger to protect her.
Poetic devices
Symbolism: Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. “A magic circle” The circle symbolizes protection and containment, suggesting that within its bounds, the listener will be safe from harm.
Stanza 19
“And now farewell! What thou hast said,
Though it has broken quite my heart,
So that I wish that I were dead–
I would before, O Queen, we part
Freely forgive, for well I know
That grief and fear have made thee wild,
We part as friends,–is it not so?”
And speaking thus,–he sadly smiled.
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of Lakshman’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Lakshman is expressing his feelings of hurt and forgiveness before parting from Sita.
“And now farewell! What thou hast said, Though it has broken quite my heart,”: Lakshman bids farewell to Sita, acknowledging that her words have deeply hurt him. This shows his emotional vulnerability.
“So that I wish that I were dead– I would before, O Queen, we part”: Lakshman expresses a wish that he were dead, indicating the depth of his pain. He addresses Sita as “Queen”, showing his respect for her.
“Freely forgive, for well I know That grief and fear have made thee wild,”: Despite his hurt, Lakshman forgives Sita. He understands that her harsh words were driven by her grief and fear. This shows his empathy and understanding.
“We part as friends,–is it not so?”: Lakshman seeks confirmation that they are parting as friends, showing his desire for reconciliation and peace.
“And speaking thus,–he sadly smiled.”: As he speaks these words, Lakshman manages a sad smile. This reflects his mixed emotions of sadness, forgiveness, and acceptance.
Overall, these lines highlight Lakshman’s emotional pain, his capacity for forgiveness, and his desire for peace and reconciliation.
Poetic devices
Alliteration: The repetition of the ‘f’ sound in “Freely forgive, for well I know” adds a rhythmic effect to the verse.
Irony: “So that I wish that I were dead–” The irony lies in the speaker’s statement that they wish for death, suggesting the depth of their despair despite the customary politeness of bidding farewell.
Simile: A simile is a figure of speech that compares two unlike things, usually using the words “like” or “as.” “We part as friends,–is it not so?” The comparison of parting as friends to an unspoken agreement or understanding is a simile that emphasizes the desire for amicable separation despite the circumstances.
Stanza 20
“And oh ye sylvan gods that dwell
Among these dim and sombre shades,
Whose voices in the breezes swell
And blend with noises of cascades,
Watch over Sîta, whom alone
I leave, and keep her safe from harm,
Till we return unto our own,
I and my brother, arm in arm.
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of Lakshman’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Lakshman is invoking the sylvan gods, or the gods of the woods, to protect Sita while he is away.
“And oh ye sylvan gods that dwell Among these dim and sombre shades,”: Lakshman addresses the sylvan gods that live in the forest. The “dim and sombre shades” refer to the shadowy, mysterious aspects of the forest.
“Whose voices in the breezes swell And blend with noises of cascades,”: Lakshman describes the sounds of the forest as the voices of the sylvan gods. These voices swell in the breezes and blend with the noises of cascades, creating a vivid auditory image of the forest.
“Watch over Sîta, whom alone I leave, and keep her safe from harm,”: Lakshman asks the sylvan gods to watch over Sita and keep her safe from harm. This shows his concern for Sita’s safety and his belief in the protective power of the sylvan gods.
“Till we return unto our own, I and my brother, arm in arm.”: Lakshman expresses his hope to return with his brother, Rama. The phrase “arm in arm” suggests a sense of unity and mutual support.
Overall, these lines highlight Lakshman’s respect for the sylvan gods, his concern for Sita’s safety, and his hope for a safe return with his brother.
Poetic devices
Apostrophe: An apostrophe is a figure of speech where the speaker addresses an absent or imaginary person or entity. “And oh ye sylvan gods that dwell / Among these dim and sombre shades,” The speaker addresses the sylvan gods, calling upon them to watch over Sîta in their absence.
Stanza 21
“For though ill omens round us rise
And frighten her dear heart, I feel
That he is safe. Beneath the skies
His equal is not,–and his heel
Shall tread all adversaries down,
Whoever they may chance to be.–
Farewell, O Sîta! Blessings crown
And Peace for ever rest with thee!”
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of Lakshman’s speech in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Lakshman is expressing his faith in Rama’s safety and his farewell wishes to Sita.
“For though ill omens round us rise And frighten her dear heart, I feel That he is safe.”: Despite the ill omens that are causing fear in Sita’s heart, Lakshman expresses his belief that Rama is safe. This shows his unwavering faith in Rama’s strength and destiny.
“Beneath the skies His equal is not,–and his heel Shall tread all adversaries down,”: Lakshman asserts that there is no one equal to Rama under the sky, and that Rama will defeat all his adversaries. This further emphasizes his belief in Rama’s invincibility.
“Whoever they may chance to be.–”: Lakshman states that it doesn’t matter who Rama’s adversaries might be, implying that Rama’s strength and courage are superior to any enemy.
“Farewell, O Sîta! Blessings crown And Peace for ever rest with thee!”: Lakshman bids farewell to Sita, wishing her blessings and everlasting peace. This reflects his deep affection and concern for Sita.
Overall, these lines highlight Lakshman’s faith in Rama’s safety, his respect for Rama’s strength, and his affectionate farewell to Sita.
Poetic devices
Metaphor: “And his heel / Shall tread all adversaries down,” The metaphor of treading adversaries down with one’s heel suggests the protagonist’s superiority and dominance over any challenges they may face.
Stanza 22
He said, and straight his weapons took
His bow and arrows pointed keen,
Kind,–nay, indulgent,–was his look,
No trace of anger there was seen,
Only a sorrow dark, that seemed
To deepen his resolve to dare
All dangers. Hoarse the vulture screamed,
As out he strode with dauntless air.
Explanation: These lines are a continuation of Lakshman’s actions in the poem “Lakshman” by Toru Dutt. Here, Lakshman is preparing to leave Sita and go to Rama’s aid.
“He said, and straight his weapons took His bow and arrows pointed keen,”: After bidding farewell to Sita, Lakshman immediately takes up his weapons, his bow and sharp arrows. This shows his readiness to face any danger that might come his way.
“Kind,–nay, indulgent,–was his look, No trace of anger there was seen,”: Despite Sita’s harsh words and accusations, Lakshman’s look is described as kind and indulgent, with no trace of anger. This reflects his understanding and forgiveness.
“Only a sorrow dark, that seemed To deepen his resolve to dare All dangers.”: Lakshman feels a deep sorrow, which only strengthens his resolve to dare all dangers. This shows his courage and determination.
“Hoarse the vulture screamed, As out he strode with dauntless air.”: As Lakshman strides out with a fearless demeanor, a vulture screams hoarsely, adding a sense of foreboding to the scene. Despite this ominous sign, Lakshman remains undeterred, reflecting his bravery.
Overall, these lines highlight Lakshman’s readiness to face danger, his understanding and forgiving nature, and his courage in the face of adversity.
Poetic devices
Alliteration: The repetition of the ‘d’ sound in “deepen his resolve to dare All dangers” adds a rhythmic effect to the verse.
Personification: The vulture’s hoarse scream is personified to add to the ominous atmosphere as Lakshman leaves.
