rabindranath tagore book review in english

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Gitanjali: A Comprehensive Literary Analysis of Rabindranath Tagore’s Masterpiece

Rabindranath Tagore

Rabindranath Tagore’s “Gitanjali” is a collection of poems that has captivated readers for over a century. This literary masterpiece has been translated into numerous languages and has won the Nobel Prize for Literature. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive literary analysis of “Gitanjali,” exploring its themes, style, and significance in the world of literature.

Background and Context

Rabindranath Tagore, the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, is widely regarded as one of the greatest literary figures in Indian history. His works, which include poetry, novels, and plays, have been translated into numerous languages and continue to be celebrated for their lyrical beauty and profound insights into the human condition. Among his most famous works is Gitanjali, a collection of poems that was first published in 1910. Gitanjali, which means “song offerings,” is a deeply spiritual work that explores themes of love, devotion, and the search for meaning in life. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive literary analysis of Gitanjali, examining its themes, structure, and language in order to gain a deeper understanding of this masterpiece of Indian literature.

Tagore’s Life and Work

Rabindranath Tagore was a prolific writer, poet, and philosopher who left an indelible mark on Indian literature and culture. Born in Calcutta in 1861, Tagore was the youngest of thirteen children and grew up in a family that was deeply involved in the arts and literature. He began writing poetry at a young age and published his first collection of poems, “Bhanusimha Thakurer Padabali,” at the age of sixteen. Over the course of his life, Tagore wrote over 2,000 songs, numerous plays, and dozens of books of poetry and prose. He was the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913, and his work continues to be celebrated and studied around the world.

Structure and Form

The structure and form of Gitanjali is unique and unconventional. It is a collection of 103 poems, each with its own distinct theme and message. The poems are not arranged in any particular order, and there is no overarching narrative or plot. Instead, the poems are like individual pieces of a puzzle that come together to form a larger picture.

The form of the poems is also unconventional. They are written in free verse, without any strict rhyme or meter. This allows Tagore to experiment with language and create a more natural and organic flow to his poetry. The poems are also relatively short, with most being only a few lines long. This brevity allows Tagore to pack a lot of meaning into each poem, and to convey his message in a concise and powerful way.

Despite the unconventional structure and form, Gitanjali is a cohesive and powerful work of literature. The poems are deeply spiritual and philosophical, and they explore themes of love, faith, and the human condition. Through his poetry, Tagore invites the reader to reflect on their own life and to find meaning and purpose in the world around them.

Themes and Motifs

One of the most prominent themes in Gitanjali is the search for spiritual enlightenment. Throughout the collection of poems, Tagore explores the idea of connecting with a higher power and finding meaning in life beyond material possessions. This theme is exemplified in poems such as “The Gardener” and “The Child Angel,” where the speaker seeks guidance and understanding from a divine source.

Another recurring motif in Gitanjali is the natural world. Tagore frequently uses imagery of nature to convey emotions and ideas, such as in the poem “The Sunset of the City,” where the setting sun represents the end of a chapter in life. The use of nature in this way adds a sense of universality to the themes of the collection, as the natural world is something that all readers can relate to and understand.

Overall, the themes and motifs in Gitanjali work together to create a cohesive exploration of spirituality and the human experience. Through his use of language and imagery, Tagore invites readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values, making Gitanjali a timeless masterpiece of literature.

Symbolism and Imagery

Symbolism and imagery play a significant role in Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali. The poems are filled with vivid and powerful images that evoke a range of emotions and ideas. One of the most prominent symbols in the collection is the image of the bird. Throughout the poems, birds are used to represent freedom, spirituality, and the human soul. In “Song 1,” for example, the speaker compares his soul to a bird that is trapped in a cage, longing to be set free. This image is a powerful metaphor for the human desire for spiritual liberation and transcendence. Other symbols in the collection include the sun, which represents enlightenment and divine knowledge, and the ocean, which symbolizes the vastness and mystery of the universe. Through these symbols and images, Tagore creates a rich and complex tapestry of meaning that invites readers to explore the depths of their own spiritual and emotional lives.

Language and Style

Tagore’s language and style in Gitanjali are both unique and captivating. He uses simple and straightforward language to convey complex emotions and ideas. His style is characterized by a lyrical quality that is both musical and poetic. The use of repetition, imagery, and symbolism is also prevalent throughout the work. Tagore’s language and style are integral to the overall impact of Gitanjali, as they help to create a sense of intimacy and emotional depth that is both powerful and moving.

Character Analysis

One of the most striking aspects of Gitanjali is the depth and complexity of its characters. Tagore’s ability to create fully realized individuals with unique personalities and motivations is a testament to his skill as a writer. The protagonist of the collection, who is often assumed to be Tagore himself, is a particularly fascinating character. He is introspective and contemplative, constantly searching for meaning and purpose in his life. His struggles with faith and doubt, as well as his deep love for nature and humanity, make him a relatable and sympathetic figure. Other characters in the collection, such as the various gods and goddesses that appear in the poems, are equally well-drawn and add to the richness of the work as a whole. Through his masterful characterizations, Tagore creates a world that is both vividly real and deeply spiritual.

Religious and Philosophical Influences

Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali is a masterpiece that reflects the poet’s religious and philosophical influences. Tagore was deeply influenced by the teachings of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity, which are reflected in his poetry. His spiritual beliefs are evident in the themes of his poems, which explore the nature of God, the meaning of life, and the human condition.

Tagore’s poetry is infused with the idea of unity and oneness, which is a central tenet of Hinduism and Buddhism. He believed that all living beings are interconnected and that the ultimate goal of life is to achieve spiritual enlightenment. This idea is reflected in his poem “The Gardener,” where he writes, “I am only a flower, / you are the sun and the sky, / and together we make a garden.”

Tagore’s poetry also reflects his Christian influences, particularly in his exploration of the concept of love. He believed that love was the most powerful force in the universe and that it had the power to transform individuals and society. This idea is evident in his poem “Unending Love,” where he writes, “I seem to have loved you in numberless forms, numberless times, / In life after life, in age after age forever.”

Overall, Tagore’s religious and philosophical influences are an integral part of his poetry and contribute to its timeless appeal. His exploration of the nature of God, the meaning of life, and the human condition continues to resonate with readers today, making Gitanjali a true masterpiece of world literature.

Impact and Legacy

The impact and legacy of Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali cannot be overstated. The collection of poems, which won Tagore the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913, has been translated into numerous languages and continues to inspire readers around the world. Gitanjali is not only a masterpiece of Bengali literature but also a significant contribution to world literature. It has influenced generations of writers and poets, and its themes of spirituality, love, and nature continue to resonate with readers today. Tagore’s use of simple language and imagery to convey complex emotions and ideas has made Gitanjali accessible to a wide audience, and its universal themes have ensured its enduring popularity. The legacy of Gitanjali is evident in the continued reverence for Tagore as a literary giant and cultural icon in India and beyond.

Reception and Criticism

Gitanjali, Rabindranath Tagore’s masterpiece, has received both praise and criticism since its publication in 1910. The collection of poems, which won Tagore the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913, has been celebrated for its spiritual depth and lyrical beauty. However, some critics have also pointed out its occasional sentimentality and lack of political engagement. Despite these criticisms, Gitanjali remains a beloved work of literature that continues to inspire readers around the world.

Gender and Feminism

In Gitanjali, Rabindranath Tagore explores the themes of gender and feminism through his portrayal of women. The women in his poems are not passive objects of male desire, but rather active agents who challenge societal norms and expectations. They are strong, independent, and capable of making their own decisions. Tagore’s portrayal of women is a reflection of his own feminist beliefs, which were ahead of their time. He believed in the equality of men and women and advocated for women’s rights. Through his poetry, Tagore encourages women to break free from the constraints of patriarchy and to assert their own identities. His message is as relevant today as it was when he wrote Gitanjali over a century ago.

Colonialism and Nationalism

Colonialism and Nationalism played a significant role in shaping the literary works of Rabindranath Tagore, particularly in his masterpiece, Gitanjali. As a Bengali writer living under British colonial rule, Tagore was acutely aware of the political and cultural tensions of his time. His poetry reflects a deep sense of longing for freedom and national identity, as well as a critique of the oppressive colonial system.

In Gitanjali, Tagore explores themes of love, spirituality, and the search for meaning in a world dominated by colonialism. The poems are infused with a sense of melancholy and nostalgia for a lost way of life, as well as a yearning for a brighter future. At the same time, Tagore celebrates the beauty of his native Bengal and the richness of its cultural traditions.

Through his poetry, Tagore also critiques the narrow-mindedness of colonialism and its impact on Indian society. He challenges the idea that Western culture is superior to Indian culture, and instead celebrates the diversity and complexity of his own heritage. In doing so, he offers a powerful vision of Indian nationalism that is rooted in a deep appreciation for the country’s history and culture.

Overall, Colonialism and Nationalism are central themes in Gitanjali, and they reflect the complex political and cultural landscape of Tagore’s time. Through his poetry, Tagore offers a powerful critique of colonialism and a vision of Indian nationalism that is both inclusive and deeply rooted in the country’s cultural heritage.

Love and Relationships

Love and Relationships play a significant role in Rabindranath Tagore’s masterpiece, Gitanjali. The collection of poems explores the various facets of love, including romantic love, spiritual love, and love for humanity. Tagore’s portrayal of love is not limited to the conventional notions of love but goes beyond it to encompass the universal human experience of love and relationships. The poems in Gitanjali are a testament to the power of love to transform and transcend boundaries. Through his poetry, Tagore emphasizes the importance of love and relationships in our lives and how they shape our identity and purpose. The themes of love and relationships in Gitanjali are timeless and continue to resonate with readers across generations.

Nature and Environment

Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali is not only a masterpiece of literature, but it also reflects the poet’s deep love and respect for nature and the environment. Throughout the collection of poems, Tagore portrays nature as a source of inspiration, solace, and spiritual enlightenment. He celebrates the beauty of the natural world, from the blooming flowers to the singing birds, and emphasizes the importance of preserving it for future generations. In one of the poems, he writes, “The earth is yours, and the fullness thereof; the world and they that dwell therein.” This line highlights the interconnectedness of all living beings and the responsibility we have to protect the planet we call home. Tagore’s Gitanjali serves as a reminder of the beauty and fragility of nature and the urgent need to take action to preserve it.

Social and Political Issues

One of the most prominent social and political issues addressed in Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali is the struggle for Indian independence from British colonial rule. Throughout the collection of poems, Tagore expresses his deep love for his country and his desire for its freedom. He also critiques the oppressive nature of colonialism and the ways in which it has disrupted traditional Indian culture and values. Additionally, Tagore addresses issues of class and caste, advocating for greater equality and social justice. Overall, Gitanjali serves as a powerful commentary on the social and political issues of its time, and continues to resonate with readers today.

Spirituality and Mysticism

Spirituality and Mysticism are two of the most prominent themes in Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali. The poems in this collection are deeply rooted in the poet’s spiritual beliefs and his quest for a deeper understanding of the divine. Tagore’s spirituality is not limited to any particular religion or tradition, but rather encompasses a universal understanding of the divine that transcends all boundaries.

The poems in Gitanjali are filled with mystical imagery and metaphors that evoke a sense of wonder and awe. Tagore’s use of nature imagery, in particular, is a recurring motif throughout the collection. He often uses the natural world as a metaphor for the divine, portraying it as a source of beauty, wonder, and inspiration.

One of the most striking aspects of Tagore’s spirituality is his emphasis on the importance of personal experience and direct communion with the divine. He encourages his readers to seek out their own spiritual path and to cultivate a deep and personal relationship with the divine. This emphasis on personal experience is reflected in the intimate and confessional tone of many of the poems in Gitanjali.

Overall, the spirituality and mysticism in Gitanjali are an integral part of the collection’s appeal and enduring popularity. Tagore’s universal message of love, compassion, and spiritual awakening continues to resonate with readers around the world, making Gitanjali a timeless masterpiece of world literature.

Interpretations and Readings

Gitanjali, a collection of poems by Rabindranath Tagore, has been interpreted and read in various ways since its publication in 1910. The poems have been translated into numerous languages and have been appreciated by readers across the world. The collection has been interpreted as a spiritual journey, a celebration of nature, a reflection on love and relationships, and a critique of colonialism.

One of the most common interpretations of Gitanjali is that it is a spiritual journey of the poet. The poems are seen as a quest for the divine, a search for meaning and purpose in life. The poems are filled with references to God, the soul, and the afterlife. The poet’s longing for the divine is expressed through his use of imagery and metaphors, such as the sun, the moon, and the stars.

Another interpretation of Gitanjali is that it is a celebration of nature. The poems are filled with descriptions of the natural world, such as the flowers, the birds, and the trees. The poet’s love for nature is expressed through his use of vivid imagery and sensory details. The poems are seen as a tribute to the beauty and wonder of the natural world.

Gitanjali has also been interpreted as a reflection on love and relationships. The poems are filled with expressions of love, longing, and desire. The poet’s relationships with his loved ones, such as his wife and children, are explored in the poems. The poems are seen as a celebration of the joys and sorrows of love and relationships.

Finally, Gitanjali has been interpreted as a critique of colonialism. The poems are filled with references to the poet’s homeland, India, and his people. The poet’s love for his country and his people is expressed through his use of imagery and metaphors. The poems are seen as a critique of the oppressive colonial rule that India was under at the time of the collection’s publication.

In conclusion, Gitanjali is a masterpiece of literature that has been interpreted and read in various ways. The collection has been appreciated for its spiritual depth, its celebration of nature, its reflection on love and relationships, and its critique of colonialism. The poems continue to inspire readers across the world and are a testament to the enduring power of Tagore’s poetry.

Comparative Analysis with Other Works

When it comes to comparing Gitanjali with other works, it is important to note that Tagore’s masterpiece stands out for its unique blend of spirituality, humanism, and poetic beauty. While there are certainly other works of literature that explore similar themes, few can match the depth and complexity of Gitanjali. For example, the poetry of William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge often deals with themes of nature, spirituality, and the human experience, but their works lack the universal appeal and emotional resonance of Tagore’s writing. Similarly, the works of other Indian poets such as Mirza Ghalib and Kabir also explore themes of spirituality and humanism, but they do not possess the same level of poetic beauty and emotional depth as Gitanjali. Ultimately, it is this unique combination of spiritual insight, humanistic values, and poetic beauty that sets Gitanjali apart from other works of literature and makes it a true masterpiece of world literature.

Adaptations and Translations

One of the most remarkable aspects of Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali is its ability to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers. Originally written in Bengali, the collection of poems has been translated into numerous languages, including English, French, German, and Spanish. These translations have allowed readers from all over the world to experience the beauty and depth of Tagore’s work. However, some critics argue that the translations do not fully capture the essence of the original text, as certain nuances and cultural references may be lost in translation. Despite this, the popularity of Gitanjali and its translations continues to grow, cementing its place as a timeless masterpiece of world literature.

Bookishloom

A blog about books and all things bookish, five must-read short stories by rabindranath tagore.

rabindranath tagore book review in english

Rabindranath Tagore ’s short stories set during the British colonial era of India, perfectly depict the essence of Indian society. Although he predominantly centered the plot of his narrative within the geographical and cultural confines of Bengal, it cuts across the cultural reference with the emotional journey of the women in each of his short stories.

His writings focus on society’s expectations of women, exploring themes of their unconditional love, and inner turmoil. While reading through Tagore’s short stories, you realize the powerless position of women in our society and their ignorance burdened under the responsibility of a primary caretaker of their households.

1. ‘The Postmaster’

‘ The Postmaster ’ can be understood from two perspectives. First, a city-bred man’s reluctance to adjust in the rural area. Second, a woman’s loneliness and devotion towards her benefactor.

The postmaster was from Calcutta, the capital of Bengal and his posting in Ulapur, a far-flung village caused him distress. It is a pity that despite having an indigo factory owned by an Englishman, Ulapur could not entice a man from the city. Sadly, the postmaster disliked the rural lifestyle and could not fit in with the local community. He yearned to meet like-minded urban people but continued to work at the post office to occupy his days. At home, he had hired the services of Ratan, the orphan from the village to help him with odd household chores.

“ Oh, if only some kindred soul were near – just one loving human being whom I could hold near my heart! ”

The postmaster longs to swap the serenity of the village for the hustle of the town. While Ratan is happy to have found the postmaster, who has started to teach her to read. Ratan became a patient listener and a companion for the postmaster but perhaps without an equal level of reciprocation.

It is quite a revelation that people despised rural postings even in the pre-independence period. Thematically, one would look at this story from the perspective of ‘meetings and partings’ and homesickness. The protagonist’s aversion to the village posting affirms the rural-urban divide. A village posting, even then meant being pushed to the backward areas with lack of amenities and education.

2. ‘ Mashi ’

‘ Mashi ‘ is a familiar Bengali term used to address an aunt. Though Mashi is the central character, this story touches upon marital dynamics and loneliness.

Jotin is married to Mani, a young sprightly girl. Though Mani and Jotin never really had their way as husband and wife. Mani is a child at heart, who is unhindered by her husband’s serious illness. All she can think of is going home to her younger sister’s annaprashan ceremony.

Mashi is a widow who lost her husband at a young age. With that bitterness inside her, she cannot comprehend Mani’s desire to be happy. So the story is to be understood from Mashi’s perspective. Her affection for Jotin is absolutely on the pedestal.

In her effort to soothe Jotin’s heart, she construes little lies about Mani’s love for him. The dedication and love of a wife are quantified in terms of spending sleepless nights weaving a shawl, cooking, and sobbing.

This story shows the sad predicament of Mani, a young girl burdened with marriage, and her sheer inability to reciprocate Jotin’s love juxtaposed to an older Mashi. Mashi has learned to glorify a woman’s life tragedies and can only think of devoting her affections to a man in every form.

3. ‘ Kabuliwala ’

‘ Kabuliwala ‘ or the man from Kabul is the story of Abdur Rahman, the seller of seasonal goods from Kabul. Abdur Rahman’s longing for his family, especially his daughter is central to the story. He is poor, hence away from his loved ones unlike the rich narrator of the story living in Calcutta.

The story begins with the details of Mini, the talkative five-year-old daughter of the narrator. The father relishes Mini’s incessant barrage of questions and queries amidst writing his novel while the mother is often vexed with her little girl. Mini reminds Kabuliwala of his daughter. He brings small treats for Mini and soon the two develop a strong bond of affection.

Kabuliwala is all about the fathers’ love for their daughters. And, the heartbreaking moment of seeing them grow up and leave parental home after marriage. As a reader, you get a glimpse of Tagore’s favourite thematic subjects of fatherly affection and partings.

4. ‘ Subha ’

‘ Subha ’ is a poignant story, in which Tagore brings forth the story of a mute village girl. In a small village called Chandipur by the riverside in West Bengal, lived the Banikantha family, and Subha was the youngest of their three daughters.

There is loneliness and lack of companionship in Subha’s life. Subha’s mother sees her daughter’s physical handicap as her flaw and is disappointed in her. The parents are also burdened with the responsibility of getting their daughter married.

The only solace for Subha was to either go to the riverside after finishing her household chores or be with her two friends – Sarbbashi and Panguli, the two cows. You find the parallels drawn between the status of domestic animals and that of Subha’s existence.

More than Subha’s sufferings, the story makes one realize the inability of our society to be inclusive of the physically challenged – of their emotional needs and well-being.

5. ‘ The Editor ‘

Tagore explores the father-daughter relationship in ‘ The Editor ’, once again through the father’s perspective. At the beginning of the story, the narrator reflects how close he felt to his wife, and neglecting the paternal responsibility towards his little daughter. However, the wife’s passing brought the father-daughter closer. Though it was Probha who from a very young age assumed the role of the caregiver.

In this story, Tagore portrays the boundless affection of a daughter for her father. In return, the father wants to earn enough to be able to marry his daughter into a “good” family.

The tiny intricacies of life during that time, being too old for a government job, or the inability to get a private job on account of lack of influence enrich the narrative. Ultimately, Probha’s father turns to writing fiction as a source of income and later joins a newspaper. His popularity as a writer and focus on writing creates a distance from Probha.

Will you relish reading Tagore’s short stories? Absolutely, these stories have such a profound connect, especially for the Indian readers. Many of the issues concerning women in our society highlighted by Tagore still persist. Thus, while reading these stories…you realize their timeless relevance.