Many thanks to the Punkster who is making the transition to this theme a lot smoother. While she tinkers with the innards of my WordPress, I am suddenly distracted. For no reason at all, I feel like sharing this piece from the Kuruntokai, part of the Ettuthokai anthology, as penned by Sembula Peyaneerar.
As translated so beautifully by AK Ramanujan – Red Earth and Pouring Rain.
What could my mother be
to yours? What kin is my father
to yours anyway? And how
Did you and I meet ever?
But in love
our hearts have mingled
as red earth and pouring rain
Sigh!
PS – As I post this – the other Megha – is knocking herself out. Please expect themes to change suddenly and changes to be made.
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Sigh somehow the english translation didn’t provoke the same feelings as the tamil words. Even though have heard these words hundreds of times, didn’t know the poet’s name until today, thanks
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WA: Yes, it’s obviously nowhere close to the original, for those of us less able to understand classical tamil – it at least gives us a mild preview. 🙂
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There is a wonderful modern cynical version of this kuruntokai piece, written by poet Meera.
My dad and your dad
are from the same village
Vasudevanallur
My dad and your dad
are from the same caste
Thirunelveli Saivap Pillaimar.
You are related to
me as my
first cousin.
So in love
our hearts have mingled
as red earth and pouring rain
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Chenthil: Awesome! I cringed and laughed all at the same time.
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