MAYA POEM BY RABINDRANATH TAGORE
POEM-
That I should make much of myself and turn it on all sides,
thus casting colored shadows on thy radiance —-such is thy Maya. Thou settest a barrier in thine own being and then callest thy severed self in myriad notes. This thy self-separation has taken body in me. The poignant song is echoed through all the sky in many-coloured tears and smiles, alarms and hopes; waves rise up and sink again, dreams break and form. In me is thy own defeat of self. This screen that thou hast raised is painted with innumerable figures with the brush of the night and the day. Behind it thy seat is woven in wondrous mysteries of curves, casting away all barren lines of straightness. The great pageant of thee and me has overspread the sky. With the tune of thee and me all the air is vibrant, and all ages pass with the hiding and seeking of thee and me.
A detailed summary of the poem Maya
The poem begins with the speaker reflecting on the nature of illusion (Maya) and its influence on human perception. The speaker acknowledges the tendency to focus on oneself and to create illusions that distort reality. This self-centeredness casts shadows on the divine radiance, hindering one's ability to perceive truth and separating them from divine reality.
The speaker describes how individuals set up barriers within themselves, leading to a sense of separation and fragmentation. Despite this self-imposed separation, individuals still perceive their fragmented selves in various ways, reflecting the complexity of human identity and perception.
The poem explores the consequences of this self-imposed separation, as individuals internalize barriers that obstruct their perception of truth and separation from divine reality. The speaker recognizes the pervasive impact of these barriers on one's sense of self and identity, shaping their understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Ultimately, the poem suggests that the pursuit of truth requires transcending the illusions of Maya and embracing a deeper understanding of oneself and the universe. By overcoming self-centeredness and embracing a more expansive awareness, individuals can reconnect with divine reality and perceive the truth that lies beyond the illusions of Maya.
In summary, "Maya" delves into the human experience of illusion and self-awareness, highlighting the challenges of overcoming self-centeredness and embracing a deeper understanding of truth and divine reality. Through its philosophical exploration, the poem encourages readers to reflect on their own perceptions and illusions, and to strive for a more profound understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Tagore 's poem "Maya" reflects a deep unity with nature.
Natural Imagery: Throughout the poem, Tagore employs vivid imagery drawn from nature to convey the concept of Maya, or illusion. He describes the screen of Maya as being "painted with innumerable figures with the brush of the night and the day," suggesting a seamless blending of natural elements in the creation of the illusionary world. This imagery serves to underscore the interconnectedness of human existence with the rhythms and cycles of nature.
Metaphorical Language: Tagore uses metaphorical language to illustrate the unity between the self and the natural world. For example, he describes the screen of Maya as being "woven in wondrous mysteries of curves," suggesting a fluid and organic connection between the illusions of the world and the natural order. This metaphorical language reinforces the idea that human consciousness is intricately intertwined with the fabric of nature.
The Sea and the Sky: In the poem, Tagore personifies the sea and the sky, portraying them as active participants in the dance of Maya. He describes the sea as "laugh[ing]" and the sea-beach as "smile," suggesting a sense of vitality and dynamism within the natural world. By imbuing these natural elements with human-like qualities, Tagore emphasizes the deep unity between humanity and the natural environment.
The Great Pageant: Tagore concludes the poem by evoking a sense of grandeur and majesty in the interplay between the self and the natural world. He describes the "great pageant of thee and me" that "overspread[s] the sky," suggesting a cosmic unity that transcends individual consciousness. This imagery serves to highlight the interconnectedness of all beings within the vast tapestry of existence.
In summary, Tagore's poem "Maya" reflects a deep unity with nature through its use of natural imagery, metaphorical language, and the portrayal of the natural world as an active participant in the human experience. Through his exploration of Maya and its connection to the natural order, Tagore invites readers to contemplate the profound interrelationship between humanity and the world around us.
Tagore 's Maya as theme and title.
Exploration of Illusion: Throughout the poem, Tagore delves into the deceptive nature of the material world and the illusion of separation between the self and the divine. He vividly describes the screen of Maya as being "painted with innumerable figures," suggesting the multifaceted and ever-changing nature of illusion. By portraying the world as a product of Maya, Tagore underscores the theme of illusion central to the poem.
Metaphorical Language: Tagore employs metaphorical language to convey the concept of Maya and its impact on human consciousness. He describes the screen of Maya as being "woven in wondrous mysteries of curves," suggesting a complex and intricate web of illusion that envelops the self. This metaphorical language effectively captures the elusive and intangible nature of Maya as a theme.
Unity with Nature: Despite the illusion of separation created by Maya, Tagore emphasizes the underlying unity between the self and the natural world. He personifies the sea and the sky, portraying them as active participants in the dance of Maya. Through this portrayal, Tagore highlights the interconnectedness of all beings within the grand tapestry of existence, despite the illusion of separateness.
Spiritual Enlightenment: The poem ultimately conveys a message of spiritual enlightenment and liberation from the illusions of Maya. Tagore suggests that by surrendering to the mysteries of existence and transcending the illusions of the material world, one can attain a deeper understanding of the true nature of reality. This theme of spiritual awakening aligns with the overarching concept of Maya and its role in human consciousness.
Illusion and Reality: Tagore delves into the concept of Maya, which refers to the illusory nature of the material world in Hindu philosophy. He portrays the world as a "screen" painted with myriad figures, suggesting that reality is a complex interplay of illusions that obscure the true essence of existence. Through vivid imagery and metaphor, Tagore invites readers to contemplate the transient and ephemeral nature of the physical world.
The Veil of Maya: Tagore explores how Maya acts as a veil that separates individuals from the ultimate reality or divine truth. He describes Maya as a barrier that creates a sense of separation and fragmentation within the self, leading to a disconnection from the deeper dimensions of consciousness. By piercing through the veil of Maya, Tagore suggests that one can attain spiritual liberation and enlightenment.
Unity and Interconnectedness: Despite the illusion of separation created by Maya, Tagore emphasizes the underlying unity and interconnectedness of all beings. He personifies the sea and the sky, portraying them as active participants in the dance of Maya. Through this portrayal, Tagore highlights the cosmic unity that transcends individual identity, inviting readers to recognize the divinity that permeates all aspects of creation.
Spiritual Awakening: The essence of "Maya" lies in its message of spiritual awakening and the quest for truth amidst the illusions of the material world. Tagore suggests that by surrendering to the mysteries of existence and transcending the illusions of Maya, one can attain a deeper understanding of the true nature of reality. Through moments of introspection, contemplation, and surrender, Tagore invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.
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