(Part) AnalysisByPerplexityAI-volume 32-ShortStory-Comorians--8April2025

SOMAN RAGAVAN

8 April, 2025

Subject : Short story : “It brings Comorians...”

https://allpoetry.com/poem/18360732-AnalysisByPerplexityAI-volume-32-ShortStory-Comorians--8April2025-by-Soman-Ragavan (full analysis)

                                                                                           

 

Analysis by Perplexity AI

(Artificial Intelligence)

Volume 32

 

 

(1)

Soman Ragavan :

Hello. I will post a short story of mine for you to analyse. This is about the Comoros Archipelago, Indian Ocean. A referendum was held in the archipelago about independence. About 97 % of the people voted in favour of independence, with the island of Mayotte voting to remain French. As the majority had voted FOR independence, the whole country should have become independent. But the French detached Mayotte and gave independence to the rest of the country. This has been opposed by the United Nations and the African Union.

Occasionally people travel from the rest of the country to Mayotte on flimsy boats called “kwassa” in the hope of getting French nationality. Some of those boats have sunk, with loss of lives. The French President derided the “kwassas” saying it did not fish much and that it brought Comorians…

I will post the story in batches for you to analyse.

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. 

 

(2)

Perplexity AI :

The short story provided touches on several historical and geopolitical aspects surrounding the Comoros Archipelago and Mayotte. Below is an analysis of its key themes and context:

 

## **Historical Context of the Comoros Independence Referendum**

The independence referendum held on December 22, 1974, in the Comoros Archipelago resulted in an overwhelming vote for independence, with 94.57% of voters supporting it. However, Mayotte stood out, as 63.22% of its population voted to remain under French sovereignty. This divergence led to a unique outcome: while Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan became independent as the Union of the Comoros on July 6, 1975, Mayotte remained under French administration[1][2].

 

This decision by France to detach Mayotte from the rest of the archipelago was controversial and has been opposed by international organizations like the United Nations and the African Union. The Comorian state continues to claim sovereignty over Mayotte, viewing its separation as a violation of territorial integrity[2].

 

## **Migration and "Kwassa-Kwassa" Boats**

The story highlights the migration crisis involving small boats called "kwassa-kwassa," which are used by individuals traveling from the Union of the Comoros to Mayotte in hopes of obtaining French nationality or escaping poverty. These journeys are perilous, often resulting in tragic loss of life due to capsized boats. Such incidents underscore the desperation faced by migrants seeking better opportunities in Mayotte, which is economically more prosperous due to its status as a French territory[3][4].

 

## **French President's Remarks**

The story mentions derogatory remarks made by a French President about "kwassa-kwassas," implying that these boats primarily bring migrants rather than serving other purposes like fishing. Such comments have sparked criticism for their insensitivity toward the plight of migrants and the broader geopolitical tensions surrounding Mayotte[3].

 

## **Literary References**

The author also reflects on their college studies of prominent poets such as Oliver Goldsmith, Lord Byron, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and others from the Romantic and Victorian eras. This inclusion could suggest a thematic connection between historical struggles for independence (as seen in Byron's involvement in Greece's fight for freedom) and the ongoing territorial disputes involving Mayotte[5][6].

 

## **Geopolitical Implications**

The territorial dispute over Mayotte remains a strategic challenge for France in its Indo-Pacific strategy. The island's status has led to migratory crises and strained relations between France and the Union of the Comoros. The situation illustrates broader themes of post-colonial legacies and contested sovereignty in international politics[2].

 

In conclusion, this story encapsulates themes of colonial history, migration crises, geopolitical tensions, and human resilience. It also juxtaposes historical literary reflections with contemporary global issues, enriching its narrative depth.

 

Citations:

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1974_Comorian_independence_referendum

[2] https://www.rsis.edu.sg/rsis-publication/rsis/frances-indo-pacific-strategy-crisis-in-mayotte/

[3] https://www.unhcr.org/us/news/briefing-notes/boat-tragedy-indian-ocean-island-mayotte

[4] https://www.unhcr.org/uk/news/briefing-notes/boat-tragedy-indian-ocean-island-mayotte

[5] https://www.bibalex.org/libraries/presentation/static/Goldsmith_Oliver_eng.pdf

[6] https://www.britannica.com/biography/Lord-Byron-poet

[7] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samuel_Taylor_Coleridge

[8] https://www.britannica.com/summary/William-Wordsworth

[9] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Browning

[10] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matthew_Arnold

[11] https://www.britainexpress.com/History/bio/tennyson.htm

[12] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oliver_Goldsmith

[13] https://uca.edu/politicalscience/home/research-projects/dadm-project/sub-saharan-africa-region/comoros-1975-present/

[14] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comoros

[15] https://issafrica.org/iss-today/france-plans-to-terminate-mayottes-droit-du-sol

[16] https://www.cfr.org/referendums

[17] https://www.sahistory.org.za/dated-event/comoros-declared-independent-state

[18] https://africanarguments.org/2018/06/comoros-row-france-intensifies-mayotte-turmoil-brews-home/

[19] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elections_in_the_Comoros

[20] https://www.britannica.com/place/Comoros/History

[21] https://www.cfr.org/blog/authoritarianism-comoros-resurgent

[22] https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-13229685

[23] https://www.britannica.com/topic/history-of-Comoros

[24] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comoro_Islands

[25] https://www.infomigrants.net/en/post/55330/mayotte-slowdown-in-migrant-crossings-from-comoros-as-protests-continue

[26] https://www.rfi.fr/en/africa/20170604-macron-sparks-row-migrants-boat-joke

[27] https://www.unhcr.org/news/briefing-notes/boat-tragedy-mayotte-confirmed-deaths-missing

[28] https://www.france24.com/en/france/20241003-france-orders-more-deportation-flights-to-africa-from-indian-ocean-island-of-mayotte-bruno-retailleau-migrants

[29] https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/report/76277/comoros-hope-boat-mayotte

[30] http://constitutionnet.org/news/voices/frances-citizenship-reform-mayotte-dangerous-constitutional-reform-purely-symbolic-impact

[31] https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/feature/2018/02/14/mayotte-french-migration-frontline-you-ve-never-heard

[32] http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/18608/Comoran+migrants+pursue+Mayotte+at+any+cost

[33] https://issafrica.org/iss-today/comoros-mayotte-saga-a-microcosm-of-africa-europe-migration-crisis

[34] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-34548270

[35] https://thefunambulist.net/magazine/undocumented-international/mayotte-a-modern-day-colonial-border

[36] https://www.gulf-times.com/article/660136/international/comoran-migrants-pursue-mayotte-at-any-cost

[37] https://documents.un.org/doc/resolution/gen/nr0/407/46/pdf/nr040746.pdf

[38] https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/country-files/regional-strategies/indo-pacific/the-indo-pacific-a-priority-for-france/france-in-the-south-west-indian-ocean/article/the-union-of-the-comoros-and-mayotte

[39] https://www.csis.org/analysis/comoros-big-troubles-some-small-islands

[40] https://www.azernews.az/nation/230765.html

[41] https://gadebate.un.org/en/78/comoros

[42] https://www.equaltimes.org/mayotte-home-to-the-biggest-marine?lang=en

[43] https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/19392206.2023.2195748

[44] https://report.az/en/foreign-politics/conference-dedicated-to-french-occupied-mayotte-island-adopts-final-declaration/

[45] https://academic.oup.com/afraf/article/113/451/254/135556

[46] https://www.english.cam.ac.uk/cambridgeauthors/byron/

[47] https://www.britannica.com/summary/Samuel-Taylor-Coleridge

[48] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Wordsworth

[49] https://sites.udel.edu/britlitwiki/robert-browning/

[50] https://www.britannica.com/biography/Matthew-Arnold

[51] https://www.vedantu.com/biography/alfred-tennyson

[52] https://www.encyclopedia.com/people/literature-and-arts/english-literature-1500-1799-biographies/oliver-goldsmith

[53] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lord_Byron

[54] https://www.britannica.com/biography/Samuel-Taylor-Coleridge

[55] https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/william-wordsworth

[56] https://www.britannica.com/biography/Robert-Browning

[57] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arnold_Mathew

[58] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1997_Anjouan_independence_referendum

[59] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1958_Comorian_constitutional_referendum

[60] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Territory_of_the_Comoros

[61] https://thefunambulist.net/magazine/spaces-of-labor/resistance-against-colonial-domination-in-the-comoros

[62] https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34548270

[63] https://www.unhcr.org/news/briefing-notes/boat-tragedy-indian-ocean-island-mayotte

[64] https://www.unhcr.org/au/news/briefing-notes/boat-tragedy-indian-ocean-island-mayotte

[65] https://pulitzercenter.org/stories/oceans-apart-neglected-migration-crisis-african-coast

[66] https://reliefweb.int/report/mayotte-france/boat-tragedy-mayotte-%E2%80%93-confirmed-deaths-missing

[67] https://riskbulletins.globalinitiative.net/esa-obs-009/04-the-pandemic-has-driven-unprecedented-shifts-in-human-smuggling-patterns-to-mayotte.html

[68] https://reliefweb.int/report/comoros/comoros-situation-report-no1

[69] https://digitallibrary.un.org/nanna/record/677629/files/A_31_PV-34-EN.pdf?withWatermark=0&withMetadata=0&registerDownload=1&version=1

[70] https://time.com/archive/6942916/what-the-comoros-invasion-reveals/

[71] https://overseasreview.blogspot.com/2008/10/france-seeks-referendum-in-mayotte.html

[72] https://issafrica.org/pscreport/psc-insights/comoros-defeats-the-odds-at-the-helm-of-the-african-union

 

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Answer from Perplexity: pplx.ai/share

(3)

Soman Ragavan :

Here is Part One of my short story “It brings Comorians...” (Posted).

 

(4)

Perplexity AI :

The first part of Soman Ragavan's short story, *“It Brings Comorians”*, highlights the migration crisis between Mayotte and the Comoros Archipelago, as well as the broader geopolitical and social implications of this ongoing issue. Below is an analysis of the themes and context presented in Part One:

 

## **Key Themes in Part One**

 

### **Migration and Kwassa-Kwassa Boats**

The story emphasizes the perilous journeys undertaken by Comorians on small boats, known as "kwassa-kwassas," to reach Mayotte. These boats are often overcrowded and poorly equipped, leading to frequent accidents and loss of life. This tragic reality underscores the desperation of migrants seeking better opportunities in Mayotte, which remains a French territory with higher economic prospects compared to the Union of the Comoros[1][3][4].

 

### **French President's Controversial Remarks**

The narrative references Emmanuel Macron’s infamous comment about kwassa-kwassas, stating that they "don’t fish much; they bring Comorians." This remark was widely criticized for its insensitivity toward migrants and the humanitarian crisis surrounding their journeys. Macron’s comment also sparked broader debates about France's colonial legacy and its handling of migration issues in Mayotte[3][4].

 

### **Geopolitical Tensions**

Mayotte’s status as a French department continues to be a contentious issue. While Mayotte voted to remain French during the 1974 independence referendum, the Union of the Comoros claims sovereignty over the island. This unresolved territorial dispute has fueled tensions between France and Comoros, particularly regarding migration policies like Operation Wuambushu, which aims to expel undocumented migrants from Mayotte back to Comoros[1][3].

 

### **Humanitarian Crisis**

The story sheds light on the human cost of migration. Thousands of Comorians have died attempting to cross the sea to Mayotte since 1995, highlighting the dire circumstances that drive people to risk their lives for a chance at economic stability or safety[3][4]. The kwassa-kwassas symbolize both hope and tragedy for those who undertake these dangerous voyages.

 

## **Social and Economic Context**

The migration crisis reflects stark inequalities between Mayotte and the Union of the Comoros. Mayotte’s integration into France has brought significant economic advantages, making it a magnet for migrants from neighboring islands. However, this disparity has also led to overcrowding, strained resources, and social tensions between native Mahorans and incoming Comorians[1][4].

 

## **Conclusion**

Part One of *“It Brings Comorians”* effectively captures the complexities surrounding migration from Comoros to Mayotte. It intertwines political controversy, human tragedy, and colonial legacies to present a nuanced picture of this ongoing crisis. The story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by migrants and the broader implications for international relations in post-colonial contexts.

 

Citations:

[1] https://www.africanews.com/2023/04/22/comoros-refuses-to-accept-migrants-from-mayotte-as-row-with-paris-heats-up/

[2] https://www.rfi.fr/en/africa/20170604-macron-sparks-row-migrants-boat-joke

[3] https://www.bfmtv.com/politique/le-kwassa-kwassa-peche-peu-il-amene-du-comorien-la-blague-maladroite-de-macron_AN-201706030019.html

[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wifOcyg32Q

 

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Answer from Perplexity: pplx.ai/share

(5)

Soman Ragavan :

Here is Part 2. (Posted).

 

(6)

Perplexity AI :

Part 2 of Soman Ragavan's short story, *“It Brings Comorians”*, delves into the emotional and physical journey of migrants traveling in kwassa-kwassa boats toward Mayotte, referred to as the "promised land." Below is an analysis of the themes and literary elements presented in this section:

 

## **Themes in Part 2**

 

### **Hope Amid Desperation**

The narrative is imbued with a sense of hope that drives the migrants forward despite their precarious circumstances. The "promised land" symbolizes a beacon of opportunity and salvation for refugees fleeing dire conditions back home. This hope is juxtaposed against the harsh realities of their journey, including cramped spaces, cold winds, and the constant threat of capsizing. The reference to Alexander Pope’s line, *“Hope springs eternal in the human breast,”* underscores the resilience and optimism that sustain the passengers despite their fears.

 

### **Uncertainty and Fear**

The story vividly portrays the dangers faced by migrants on flimsy boats. The passengers grapple with silent fears—whether they will survive the journey, whether families will remain intact, and whether they will reach Mayotte safely. The imagery of being "dinner for the fish" highlights the life-and-death stakes of these voyages, emphasizing the vulnerability of those undertaking them.

 

### **Human Connection**

The brief interactions between passengers on different boats evoke a sense of shared humanity amidst isolation. The reference to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s lines about ships passing in the night serves as a poignant metaphor for fleeting connections in moments of uncertainty. It raises questions about whether these individuals will ever reunite or if their paths will diverge permanently.

 

### **Dehumanization and Existential Reflection**

The comparison of passengers to fish—potentially becoming food for other creatures—introduces a chilling reflection on dehumanization. This metaphor challenges readers to confront the harsh realities faced by migrants, questioning whether society views them as mere statistics or expendable lives. It also critiques the indifference that often accompanies such crises.

 

## **Literary Devices**

 

### **Imagery**

The story employs vivid imagery to depict the physical environment: cramped boats swaying in cold winds, mist enveloping the flotilla, and waves tossing the vessels. These descriptions immerse readers in the perilous journey while highlighting its emotional toll.

 

### **Symbolism**

- **Kwassa-kwassa boats** symbolize both fragility and resilience, embodying the precariousness of migration journeys.

- **The promised land** represents hope and opportunity but also carries undertones of uncertainty about whether it will fulfill expectations.

 

### **Intertextual References**

The inclusion of quotes from Longfellow and Pope enriches the narrative by connecting universal themes of hope, human connection, and existential uncertainty to this specific migration crisis. These references lend a timeless quality to the story while grounding it in literary tradition.

 

## **Conclusion**

Part 2 captures a deeply human struggle—balancing hope against fear during a perilous journey toward a better future. Through vivid imagery, symbolism, and intertextual references, Ragavan paints a poignant picture of migration as both an act of courage and desperation. The story invites readers to empathize with migrants while reflecting on broader questions about humanity, survival, and societal responsibility.

 

---

Answer from Perplexity: pplx.ai/share

(7)

Soman Ragavan :

Here is Part 3. (Posted).

 

(8)

Perplexity AI :

 

Part 3 of Soman Ragavan's short story, *“It Brings Comorians”*, vividly depicts the tragic consequences of a perilous journey across the sea. Below is an analysis of the themes and literary elements presented in this section:

 

## **Themes in Part 3**

 

### **Tragedy and Loss**

The narrative unfolds with a sense of foreboding as strange birds fly overhead, signaling bad omens. The storm intensifies, tossing the boats and their occupants into chaos. The cries of fear and horror from children and babies underscore the desperation and vulnerability of those on board. The tragic events that follow—boats capsizing, people struggling to stay afloat, and heart-wrenching cries for help—highlight the devastating consequences of such journeys.

 

### **Questioning Choices**

The story raises questions about the wisdom of embarking on such perilous voyages, especially with children and babies. The phrase "a ticket to paradise" turning into "a ticket to hell" poignantly captures the disillusionment and despair that can result from seeking a better life under such dangerous conditions.

 

### **Survival and Fate**

The poem excerpted in the narrative, *“The Balseros (3),”* contrasts the luxury and safety of life on land with the brutal realities of the sea, where "ruthless natural selection" prevails. This juxtaposition emphasizes the randomness of survival and the cruel fate that awaits many migrants. The poem's imagery of sharks and wine spills serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those at sea.

 

### **Nature's Indifference**

The narrative notes that even the elements seem to take pity on the tragedy unfolding, with the winds eventually subsiding. However, this moment of calm only underscores the "deathly stillness" that follows, a stark reminder of the lives lost. The phrase "survival of the fittest" is a haunting commentary on the natural world's indifference to human suffering.

 

## **Literary Devices**

 

### **Imagery and Symbolism**

- **Stormy Weather**: Symbolizes the turmoil and danger faced by migrants, emphasizing the fragility of their situation.

- **Birds as Omens**: Suggests impending doom, adding to the sense of foreboding.

- **Contrasting Imagery**: The poem contrasts luxurious life on land with the harsh realities at sea, highlighting the stark differences between safety and danger.

 

### **Emotional Impact**

The heart-wrenching scenes of mothers screaming for their children and the tragic loss of life evoke strong emotions, making the narrative deeply impactful. The use of sensory details—cries, screams, and the sound of waves—immerses readers in the chaos and desperation of the situation.

 

## **Conclusion**

Part 3 of *“It Brings Comorians”* is a powerful portrayal of the tragic consequences of migration journeys. Through vivid imagery and poignant themes, Ragavan highlights the risks and uncertainties faced by those seeking a better life. The narrative serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of such journeys and the need for empathy and understanding in addressing these global challenges.

 

Citations:

[1] https://www.unhcr.org/news/briefing-notes/boat-tragedy-indian-ocean-island-mayotte

[2] https://www.unhcr.org/news/stories/boat-tragedy-indian-ocean-island-highlights-dangers-irregular-migration

[3] https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/11/4/at-least-twenty-five-killed-after-traffickers-capsize-boat-off-comoros-iom

[4] https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34548270

[5] https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2024/12/19/iiek-d19.html

[6] https://reliefweb.int/report/mayotte-france/boat-tragedy-mayotte-%E2%80%93-confirmed-deaths-missing

[7] https://www.refworld.org/country,,UNHCR,,COM,456d621e2,4fbca2562,0.html

[8] https://www.barrons.com/articles/smugglers-sank-boat-and-fled-says-comoros-tragedy-survivor-bea0dc9f

 

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Answer from Perplexity: pplx.ai/share

(9)

Soman Ragavan :

Here is Part 4. (Posted)

 

(10)

Perplexity AI :

Part 4 of Soman Ragavan's short story, *“It Brings Comorians”*, explores the intersection of migration, politics, and human tragedy, weaving together satire and poignant imagery. Below is an analysis of its themes and literary elements...

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See full analysis on allpoetry.com