ABOUT THE POEM:
The poem ECHOES OF CONFLICT: WAR AND COWARDICE is a translated version of a poem from Tamil literature . The poem explores the complexities of war, urging the ruler to contemplate the decision to engage in conflict. The focus then shifts to the consequences of soldiers entering the enemy's land where they mercilessly cut down trees in the tutelary forest with sharp axes. This action disrupts the natural order, causing the shedding of sweet-smelling flowers and undermining the once-vibrant dunes of Aanporunai.
The imagery paints a picture of a serene landscape transformed by the brutalities of war, where even the joyous playing of kalangu young maidens is disrupted. Despite the destruction, the opponent remains inactive, earning the label of a coward. The powerful ruler, adorned with drums and rainbow-like wreaths, is called into question. The poem concludes by asking why the ruler continues to fight against such a passive foe, encouraging reflection on the purpose and cost of the conflict.
ECHOES OF CONFLICT: WAR AND COWARDICE
In the realm of war, the choice I leave to you,
Decide with judgment pure, a path to pursue.
Your soldiers, as they cross the foe's domain,
Wield axes keen, with forest's loss to gain.
With long-handled axes, the trees they fell,
Tutelary woods, where tales often swell.
The sweet-smelling blossoms begin to fall,
Under their thrust, nature's graceful sprawl.
Aanporunai's dunes, where joy would bloom,
Maidens adorned, in anklets, met their groom.
play the game of kalangu , the coins of gold displaced,
Echoes of falling trees in the wind embraced.
The castle gates resonate with the sound,
Reaching your foe's ears, a warning profound.
Yet, he stays inert, in blissful retreat,
A coward's stance, your drums with wrath beat.
The foe, a coward, with no mind to engage,
Yet, here you stand, unleashing your rage.
Shame echoes loud, in the heart of the fray,
Why clash with a coward, in this fierce array?
NOTE:
1.Aanporunai: Aanporunai is the ancient name of The Amaravati River. It is the longest tributary of the Kaveri River in the state of Tamil Nadu state, South India
2. kalangu: A game played by girls with pebbles
