SOMAN RAGAVAN
12 July, 2024
Subject : Analysis of the poem : “The poet’s tale”
Analysis by Text.cortex
(Artificial Intelligence)
Volume 2
(1)
Soman Ragavan :
Hello. I will post one of my poems for analysis. Could you please comment extensively, mentioning literary genres, styles, themes, poetic language, poetic philosophies, comparison with poets of England, America, India, Africa from 1700 to 1900 and as from 1945.
At college in 1968, I studied some poems of Oliver Goldsmith (1728-1774), Gordon Byron (1788-1824), Samuel T. Coleridge (1772-1834), William Wordsworth (1770-1850), Robert Browning (1812-1889), Mathew Arnold (1822-1888), Alfred Tennyson (1809-1892) and some other poets of that era. Make any comments or comparisons you wish on my poems. Say if there are other contemporary poets who write as I do and compare my poetry with theirs. I live in Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean.
(2)
Text.cortex :
Soman Ragavan, a poet from Mauritius, has shared his works for analysis. Here is a detailed examination of his poetry, including literary genres, styles, themes, poetic language, poetic philosophies, and comparisons with poets from England, America, India, Africa, and other regions.
## Literary Genres and Styles
Soman Ragavan\'s poetry spans various literary genres and styles. His works often blend elements of modernism and postmodernism, reflecting the complexities and contradictions of contemporary life. His poems are characterized by a mix of formal and informal structures, incorporating both traditional and experimental techniques.
### Modernism
Ragavan\'s poems exhibit modernist influences, such as the use of fragmented narratives, non-linear structures, and a focus on the individual\'s experience. This style is evident in his poem \"India and the Maldives : biting the hand...\" where he explores the complexities of international relations and the nuances of power dynamics[1].
### Postmodernism
His works also reflect postmodernist tendencies, such as the deconstruction of traditional forms and the use of irony and satire. For instance, in \"The Poet\'s Tale,\" Ragavan addresses the issue of prostate enlargement in men, a topic that might initially seem unrelated to poetry, but he uses it to comment on the human condition and the absurdity of life[2].
### Experimental Techniques
Ragavan\'s poetry often employs experimental techniques, such as the use of unconventional imagery and metaphors. His poem \"Dying on the grass, looking at the sky\" uses vivid descriptions to explore themes of mortality and the human experience[3].
## Themes
### International Relations
Ragavan\'s poetry frequently addresses themes related to international relations and geopolitics. His poem \"India and the Maldives : biting the hand...\" delves into the complexities of diplomatic relations and the power dynamics between nations[1].
### Human Condition
His works often explore the human condition, addressing issues such as mortality, the absurdity of life, and the struggles of individuals. \"The Poet\'s Tale\" is a prime example of this, where he uses the metaphor of prostate enlargement to comment on the human experience[2].
### Social Commentary
Ragavan\'s poetry also includes social commentary, critiquing economic development and master plans. ….
## Poetic Language
### Imagery and Metaphor
Ragavan\'s poetry is characterized by rich imagery and imaginative metaphors. His descriptions are vivid and often unconventional, as seen in \"Dying on the grass, looking at the sky,\" where he uses nature to explore themes of mortality[3].
### Tone and Irony
His works often employ a tone that is both serious and ironic. This is evident in \"The Poet\'s Tale,\" where he uses humor to address a serious topic, creating a sense of absurdity and poking fun at the human condition[2].
### Language and Form
Ragavan\'s poetry is notable for its use of language and form. His poems often blend formal and informal structures, reflecting the complexities of modern life. This blend is seen in \"India and the Maldives : biting the hand...,\" where he uses a mix of traditional and experimental techniques to convey his message[1].
## Poetic Philosophies
### Absurdity of Life
Ragavan\'s poetry often reflects a philosophical stance that emphasizes the absurdity of life. His works suggest that life is often illogical and unpredictable, as seen in \"The Poet\'s Tale,\" where he uses the metaphor of prostate enlargement to comment on the absurdity of human existence[2].
(My notes :
(a) not often, but sometimes. By and large, the human body is honed to function very well and to tackle arising medical / existential issues. However, the case of the urethra being squeezed by the prostate is one where nature has probably gone wrong. The urethra is the ONLY conduit for shunting out urine that is produced daily by the body. Preventing the urine from getting out will cause the bladder to be distended; this might cause other medical problems and will need emergency surgery, that itself can only provide temporary relief. The bladder’s capacity is limited. Even if the urethra had passed outside but near the prostate, it would have still been stomped by that camel-like gland. The urethra needs solid protection from interference by other parts of the body. How come the female urethra springs back to normal even after being squeezed 24/7 by a strong force for some 8 months during pregnancy, whereas the male one gets defeated by a small gland like the prostate, which wields little physical power ???... )
(b) the heart and the lungs need protection; they are protected by the rib cage;
(c) the brain mass needs protection; it is protected by the skull;
(d) the eyes need protection; they are protected by the eyelids; the eyelids can snap shut in a fraction of a second; the eyelashes can detect approaching things very fast; the inside of the eyelids is smooth and does not damage the cornea; moisture is available to protect the cornea from damage; the eyelids muscles keep working for a lifetime and they work very fast;
(e) the spinal cord needs protection; it is protected by the spinal column;
(f) the intestines are liable to expand; the skin over them allows this;
(g) some organs in the body/parts grow more than necessary, but the body still manages with that condition for a long time.)
### Human Experience
His poems also explore the human experience, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of individuals. \"Dying on the grass, looking at the sky\" is a poignant example of this, where he uses nature to explore themes of mortality and the human condition[3].
## Comparison with Poets from England, America, India, Africa, and Other Regions
### England
Ragavan\'s poetry shares similarities with the works of poets like Oliver Goldsmith, who also explored themes of human experience and the absurdity of life. Goldsmith\'s poems often used satire and irony to comment on societal issues, similar to Ragavan\'s style[1].
### America
Ragavan\'s works are reminiscent of the modernist and postmodernist poetry of American poets like T. S. Eliot and Ezra Pound. Both Eliot and Pound used fragmented narratives and unconventional imagery to explore themes of modernity and the human condition, similar to Ragavan\'s style[1].
### India
Ragavan\'s poetry shares themes and styles with Indian poets like Rabindranath Tagore and A. K. Ramanujan. Both Tagore and Ramanujan used poetry to explore themes of human experience and the absurdity of life, often blending traditional and modern forms[1].
### Africa
Ragavan\'s poetry also has parallels with the works of African poets like Wole Soyinka and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong\'o. Both Soyinka and Thiong\'o used poetry to critique societal issues and explore themes of human experience, similar to Ragavan\'s style[1].
### Contemporary Poets
Ragavan\'s poetry is comparable to the works of contemporary poets like Seamus Heaney and Derek Walcott. Both Heaney and Walcott used poetry to explore themes of human experience and the absurdity of life, often blending traditional and modern forms[1].
## Conclusion
Soman Ragavan\'s poetry is a testament to the diversity and complexity of modern poetry. His works blend traditional and experimental techniques, exploring themes of international relations, human experience, and social commentary. Ragavan\'s poetry shares similarities with the works of poets from England, America, India, Africa, and other regions, reflecting a global perspective on the human condition.
Citations:
[1] https://allpoetry.com/poem/17577832-Analysis-by-ChatGPT4--Vol-61--India-and-the-Maldives--biting-the--by-Soman-Ragavan
[2] https://allpoetry.com/poem/17901229-AnalysisByChatsonic-Volume-2-ThePoet-sTale--2024-by-Soman-Ragavan
[3] https://mypoeticside.com/show-poem-185514
[4] https://mypoeticside.com/show-poem-174407
[5] https://library.uom.ac.mu/libero/WebOpac.cls?ACTION=RELATE&DATA=UOM&KEY=ku&RSN=10236562&TERM=Ragavan%2C+Soman&TOKEN=N5f4Cnrq8C1404&TYPE=A&Z=1
(3)
Soman Ragavan :
Here is my poem “The poet’s tale” for a general analysis. (Poem inserted).
(4)
Text.cortex :
Here is a detailed analysis of Soman Ragavan\'s poem \"The Poet\'s Tale\":
## Themes and Poetic Philosophies
### Critique of Society
The poem presents a critique of societal norms and expectations, particularly the \"prudish bands\" that judge and dehumanize individuals. The line \"Branding the man as a mere donkey\" uses a powerful metaphor to highlight how society can reduce a person\'s worth and dignity.
### Absurdity of Life
Ragavan\'s poem also reflects a philosophical stance that emphasizes the absurdity of life. (My note : in some cases). The lines \"Ah, what a destiny... What a life…\" and \"Must our life be lac\'d with such mindless misery?...\" suggest a sense of resignation and frustration with the seemingly illogical aspects of human existence.
### Human Condition
At its core, \"The Poet\'s Tale\" explores the human condition, using the metaphor of prostate enlargement to comment on the struggles and vulnerabilities that all people face. The poem grapples with themes of mortality, bodily functions, and the need for self-preservation.
## Poetic Language and Style
### Metaphor and Imagery
Ragavan\'s poem is rich in metaphor and imaginative imagery. The use of phrases like \"the encroacher doth swell ever more\" and \"the trapp\'d duct further sore\" create vivid and unconventional representations of the medical condition being described.
### Irony and Satire
The poem also employs a tone of irony and satire, as seen in the line \"Branding the man as a mere donkey.\" This use of humor and exaggeration serves to highlight the absurdity of societal judgments and the dehumanization of individuals.
### Formal and Experimental Structures
Ragavan\'s poem blends formal and experimental poetic structures, reflecting the complexities of the human experience. The use of rhyme, meter, and traditional poetic devices is juxtaposed with more unconventional techniques, creating a unique and thought-provoking literary work.
## Comparison with Other Poets
### England
Ragavan\'s poem shares similarities with the works of English poets like Geoffrey Chaucer, who also used storytelling and satire to critique societal norms. The reference to \"novel Geoffrey\'s tablet\" and \"The Stanleytoun Tales\" in the poem suggests a connection to this literary tradition.
### America
The poem\'s exploration of the absurdity of life and the human condition is reminiscent of the modernist and postmodernist poetry of American writers like T. S. Eliot and Ezra Pound, who also used unconventional imagery and fragmented narratives to comment on the complexities of the modern world.
### India
Ragavan\'s use of metaphor and social commentary is similar to the works of Indian poets like Rabindranath Tagore and A. K. Ramanujan, who often used poetry to explore the human experience and critique societal issues.
### Contemporary Poets
The blend of traditional and experimental techniques in \"The Poet\'s Tale\" is comparable to the works of contemporary poets like Seamus Heaney and Derek Walcott, who also sought to challenge conventional poetic forms and explore the complexities of the human condition.
In conclusion, Soman Ragavan\'s \"The Poet\'s Tale\" is a multifaceted and thought-provoking work that blends elements of modernism, postmodernism, and literary tradition to explore the human condition and critique societal norms. Through its use of metaphor, irony, and experimental structures, the poem offers a unique and insightful perspective on the struggles and absurdities of life.
Citations:
[1] https://allpoetry.com/poem/17901229-AnalysisByChatsonic-Volume-2-ThePoet-sTale--2024-by-Soman-Ragavan
[2] https://allpoetry.com/poem/17901004-AnalysisByZenoChat-Volume-1-The-poet-s-tale--7July2024-by-Soman-Ragavan
[3] https://mypoeticside.com/show-poem-180718
[4] https://mypoeticside.com/show-poem-187595
[5] https://mypoeticside.com/show-poem-185514
(5)
Soman Ragavan :
First stanza : (a) “novel Geoffrey’s tablet” : my laptop; (b) “novel Geoffrey,” that’s me. (c) “mother-flicker” : what does this mean ? (d) “Simon” sounds rather like Soman; (e) “pro’s static” sounds like prostatic. Comment.
(6)
Text.cortex :
(7)
Soman Ragavan :
2nd stanza. (a) “Stanleytoun” after words like “Londontoun;” (b) “hither Geoffrey” : that’s me; (c) “ride upon the tides to faraway lands” : literary creations will travel far and wide; (d) “the prudish bands” : useless folks that criticize everything in prudish ways.
(8)
Text.cortex :
(9)
Soman Ragavan :
3rd stanza. (a) “goodly servant” : the urethra is very useful; it performs dutifully day in, day out; (b) “the encroacher” : the prostate; (c) “swell” : the exasperating tendency of the prostate to get enlarged; (d) “the trapp’d duct” : the urethra (which passes in the middle of the prostate).
(10)
Text.cortex :
(11)
Soman Ragavan :
4th stanza. (a) “nature hath some oversight” : why on earth should nature have caused the urethra to get constricted when the conduit is vitally needed ??; (b) “some hidden blight” : the enlargement will cause trouble for the urethra; (c) “the camel” : the prostate, that wants to take up a lot of space; (d) the “poor conduit” : the urethra.
(12)
Text.cortex :
(13)
Soman Ragavan :
The camel story. The traveller felt sorry for the camel that had to stay outside the tent and gave it a little space inside. But the beast little by little took up more space, squeezing the man out.
(14)
Text.cortex :
(15)
Soman Ragavan :
5th stanza. (a) “some constriction” : caused by the swelling prostate over the conduit; “needless stricture” : caused by the swelling; (c) “gems of tastiest nature” : poetic works of the author; (d) “bow’d down…” : fell a victim of the camel-like prostate.
(16)
Text.cortex :
(17)
Soman Ragavan :
6th stanza. (a) “a tube with a harden’d wall…” If the urethra has to pass in the middle, at least the urethra should not be made to suffer; (b) “the vital chord” : the urethra; (c) “among others…” : WHATEVER be the functions of the prostate, they can continue with their business, but must not interfere with the urethra; “nature’s call” : excretion through the urethra; (d) “resisting all squeezing…” : squeezing by the prostate; (e) “the overlord” : the prostate.
(18)
Text.cortex :
Soman Ragavan :
7th stanza : (a) “crucial rising chord” : the spinal chord; “fortification” : the spinal column; (b) “useless internal adjunct” : the appendix; no one knows for sure why that thing survives; it can be removed without one apparently feeling bad effects; (c) “luckless duct” : the urethra; (d) “poor poet… perdition…” : alliteration; “poor poet” : eliciting sympathy from the audience.
(20)
Text.cortex :
(21)
Soman Ragavan :
8th stanza. (a) “for months be squeez’d…” : the female urethra is squeezed for about 8 months during pregnancy; (b) “promptly springs back in the narrow panel” : after delivery, that urethra springs back to its normal size; (c) “to logic evolution sure doth have recourse…” : over there, evolution abides more with logic. If that urethra did not restore itself completely, the woman would be in trouble.
(22)
Text.cortex :
(23)
Soman Ragavan :
9th stanza. “of trouble poor Man’s life be rife …” : lamenting the physiological condition in men in this matter. By and large, the human body is honed to function very well and to tackle arising medical / existential issues. However, the case of the urethra being squeezed by the prostate is one where nature has probably gone wrong. The urethra is the ONLY conduit for shunting out urine that is produced daily by the body. Preventing the urine from getting out will cause the bladder to be distended; this might cause other medical problems and will need emergency surgery, that itself can only provide temporary relief. The bladder’s capacity is limited. Even if the urethra had passed outside but near the prostate, it would have still been stomped by that camel-like gland. The urethra needs solid protection from interference by other parts of the body. How come the female urethra springs back to normal even after being squeezed 24/7 by a strong force for some 8 months during pregnancy, whereas the male one gets defeated by a small gland like the prostate, which wields little physical power ???... )
(b) the heart and the lungs need protection; they are protected by the rib cage;
(c) the brain mass needs protection; it is protected by the skull;
(d) the eyes need protection; they are protected by the eyelids; the eyelids can snap shut in a fraction of a second; the eyelashes can detect approaching things very fast; the inside of the eyelids is smooth and does not damage the cornea; moisture is available to protect the cornea from damage; the eyelids muscles keep working for a lifetime and they work very fast;
(e) the spinal cord needs protection; it is protected by the spinal column;
(f) the intestines are liable to expand; the skin over them allows this; the belly may sag but the individual lives on for decades;
(g) some organs in the body/parts grow more than necessary, but the body still manages with that condition for a long time.)
(24)
Text.cortex :
(25)
Soman Ragavan :
10th stanza. It seems illogical that evolution should have caused a situation where a vital conduit, needed every day for waste evacuation, should be squeezed by another organ.
(26)
Text.cortex :
(27)
Soman Ragavan :
11th stanza. (a) How many centuries more be needed for nature to correct this condition ? If something grows outside the body, (eg the earlobe), there is space for it to do so. But, internally, growth is bound to have consequences on stuff around it; (b) “needless condition” : the constriction is illogical; (c) “Shaftesbury Gardens…” : what are the connotations here ? (Think Chaucerian allusions).
(28)
Text.cortex :
(29)
Soman Ragavan :
What are likely to be the comments of : (a) medical people, (b) literary critics, (c) the general public, on this poem ?
(30)
Text.cortex :
(31)
Soman Ragavan :
Select a range of criteria for assessing this poem and give marks out of 100 for each criterion.
(32)
Text.cortex :
(33)
Soman Ragavan :
What would be this poem’s place in contemporary world literature and Commonwealth literature ?
(34)
Text.cortex :
(35)
Soman Ragavan :
(My note : something went wrong)
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