Sita

IX.

SÎTA.

Three happy children in a darkened room!
What do they gaze on with wide-open eyes?
A dense, dense forest, where no sunbeam pries,
And in its centre a cleared spot.—There bloom
Gigantic flowers on creepers that embrace
Tall trees: there, in a quiet lucid lake
The while swans glide; there, "whirring from the brake,"
The peacock springs; there, herds of wild deer race;
There, patches gleam with yellow waving grain;
There, blue smoke from strange altars rises light.
There, dwells in peace, the poet-anchorite.
But who is this fair lady? Not in vain
She weeps,—for lo! at every tear she sheds
Tears from three pairs of young eyes fall amain,
And bowed in sorrow are the three young heads.
It is an old, old story, and the lay
Which has evoked sad Sîta from the past
Is by a mother sung.… 'Tis hushed at last
And melts the picture from their sight away,
Yet shall they dream of it until the day!
When shall those children by their mother's side
Gather, ah me! as erst at eventide?

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Comments

Bettepod's picture

Oh to be in that well told sight,
The epiphany that made me take flight
Surounded in beauty that made me smile
To keep me contented for awhile

Your poem moved me, inspired me, and wrapped around me, leaving me feeling lighthearted and anxious to write. Thanks!

Bette Podgurski

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Hnnhbiie30's picture

"Sita" by Toru Dutt is a captivating poem that transports readers into a magical world of a mother's storytelling. It tells the story of three children who are listening to their mother's narrative in a darkened room. Dutt's poetic craftsmanship weaves together imagery and emotion, creating a captivating narrative that lingers in the reader's mind.

The poem starts with an intriguing scene where three children are captivated by their mother's story. The story takes place in a dense forest, and the central clearing is adorned with giant flowers, a serene lake, and wild creatures. Dutt's skillful use of words draws readers into this magical realm, where every element comes alive.

The central character, Sîta, adds depth and emotion to the narrative. She is the fair lady in the tale, and her sorrow resonates with the children, creating a poignant link between the ancient story and the present moment.

The poem cleverly introduces the concept of storytelling within storytelling. A mother sings an old, old story that evokes Sîta from the past. The story melts away, but the impact remains, leaving the children with lingering dreams until the day they can gather once again.

One of the remarkable features of "Sita" is its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and imagination. The forest becomes a metaphor for life's beauty and its cyclical nature.

Dutt's use of language is both evocative and accessible, making the poem suitable for readers of all ages. The rhythm and flow contribute to the overall charm, making it a delightful read. The recurring theme of storytelling, dreams, and the passage of time creates a multi-layered narrative that resonates with the human experience.

In conclusion, "Sita" by Toru Dutt is a timeless poem that invites readers to embark on a poetic journey. The enchanting blend of nature, emotion, and storytelling makes it a compelling piece that captures the essence of human connection across generations. Through Dutt's evocative verses, the ancient story of Sîta comes alive, creating a bridge between the past and the present, leaving an indelible mark on the reader's heart.

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