Thinking Activity | I.A. Richards | Practical Criticism | Figurative Language
Thinking Activity | I.A. Richards | Practical Criticism | Figurative Language
This blog is written as a task assigned by the head of the Department of English (MKBU), Prof. and Dr. Dilip Barad Sir. Here is the link to the professor's research article for background reading: Click here.
Here is the link to the blog: Click here.
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| Source: Internet Archive |
1. I.A. Richards’ Lens on Harshadev Madhav’s 'વસન્ત: કોમ્પ્યૂટરની ભાષામાં'
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| Source: DALL·E 3 - Representational |
● Original Poem:
ઉપવન 'વસન્ત' એવો પાસવર્ડ મોકલે ત્યાંફાગણની ખૂલી ગઈ ફાઇલવૃક્ષોનો સ્ક્રીન આજ એવો રંગીનજુઓ ડાળીઓની નવી નવી સ્ટાઈલ!કળીઓએ વાસેલી 'વિન્ડો' ખોલી તો મળ્યાંસામે પતંગિયાનાં ટોળાં;'મેનુ'માં ચાખવાનું મઘનું ટીપું નેજરા ચૂમવાનાં ફૂલોને ભોળાં!ભમરાઓ રઘવાયા-આપ્યું ઉદારતાથીઆંબાની મંજરીએ સ્માઈલ!પીળા પડવાનો ચલો વાઈરસ દૂર થયો,ઝાડ ઝાડ પ્રગટયો ઉમંગ'પેન્ટ બ્રશ' એવા કમાન્ડ વિના ખીલ્યા છેફૂલોના સાવ ફ્રેશ રંગ!પુષ્પોનો એસ.એમ.એસ. વાંચીને કોયલ પણજોડે છે સામે મોબાઇલ...મલયાનિલ માઉસ ઉપર આંગળીઓ ફેરવે ત્યાં'ઈલુ ઇલુ' લચી જતી વેલીઓ,ખૂણે લપાઈ જુઓ બેઠાં 'લવબર્ડ્સ'અને અડકીને બેઠી સહેલીઓ;વેબસાઈટ પુષ્પો ને પ્રેમની છે એકએને મહેકવું છે-એ છે પ્રોફાઈલ...
1.1. Introduction
Harshadev Madhav’s Gujarati poem 'વસન્ત: કોમ્પ્યૂટરની ભાષામાં' is a masterpiece of modern metaphorical and symbolic expression. The poem blends the beauty of nature with the technological lexicon, presenting Vasant (spring) as an ethereal phenomenon in the digital age. To analyze this poem effectively, we apply I.A. Richards’ framework from his seminal work 'Practical Criticism: A Study of Literary Judgment,' focusing on the four kinds of meaning, two uses of language, and the four types of misunderstanding.
This analysis provides a detailed examination of the poem's structure, themes, language, and possible interpretative challenges. The blog also explores how metaphors and personifications play a pivotal role in conveying the poet's vision.
1.2. Structural Analysis: Four Kinds of Meaning
1.2.1. Sense:
The poem portrays spring as a digital phenomenon, likening the natural processes to technological actions.
"ઉપવન 'વસન્ત' એવો પાસવર્ડ મોકલે ત્યાં"
This line suggests that the garden sends a "password" for spring, opening the season akin to accessing a secured file.
Nature is depicted through digital metaphors such as "વિન્ડો" (window) and "સ્ક્રીન" (screen), bridging traditional imagery with a modern worldview.
1.2.2. Feeling:
The poet evokes delight and awe as he blends the charm of spring with the precision of digital language. For instance:
"ફાગણની ખૂલી ગઈ ફાઇલ"
—instills nostalgia with a contemporary twist, transforming a natural season into an opened computer file.
The playful tone reflects joy and curiosity, especially through imagery like—
"મલયાનિલ માઉસ ઉપર આંગળીઓ ફેરવે"
—likening the gentle spring breeze to a computer mouse's movement.
1.2.3. Tone:
The tone is lighthearted yet profound, combining reverence for nature with admiration for technological advancements. The conversational style appeals to a tech-savvy audience while maintaining poetic depth.
1.2.4. Intention:
The poet seeks to redefine the experience of spring, merging timeless natural beauty with the ubiquitous presence of technology. This fusion challenges readers to perceive nature and technology not as opposites but as complementary forces shaping our worldview.
1.3. Thematic Insights
1.3.1. Nature and Technology:
The central theme is the integration of nature with technology, evident in metaphors like "વિન્ડો ખોલી" (opening a window) and "સ્ક્રીન" (screen). The poet captures the harmony of the organic and digital worlds, symbolizing the evolving human experience.
1.3.2. Renewal and Connectivity:
Spring, traditionally a symbol of renewal, is depicted as a vibrant network of interconnected elements. The imagery of flowers sending "એસ.એમ.એસ." to the koel emphasizes communication as a unifying theme.
1.3.3. Love and Companionship:
Subtle hints of romantic and platonic relationships emerge through metaphors like "લવબર્ડ્સ" and "સહેલીઓ" (companions), portraying nature as a nurturing space for connection.
1.4. Figurative Language: Two Uses of Language
1.4.1. Scientific Use:
While rooted in metaphor, the poem employs scientific precision in its digital terminology. Words like "કમાન્ડ," "સ્ક્રીન," and "એસ.એમ.એસ." are used for their exactness, enhancing clarity.
1.4.2. Emotive Use:
The emotive power lies in the metaphors and personifications, transforming mundane objects into symbols of joy and renewal. For instance:
"પીળા પડવાનો વાઈરસ દૂર થયો"
—imagines nature overcoming a virus, echoing resilience and optimism.
1.5. Misunderstandings in Interpretation
1.5.1. Literal vs. Figurative:
A prosaic reading might misconstrue "મલયાનિલ માઉસ" as a literal mouse rather than the breeze, leading to a loss of poetic nuance.
1.5.2. Cultural Context:
Non-Gujarati readers might miss cultural undertones, such as the significance of "ફાગણ" (spring in the Hindu calendar).
1.5.3. Digital Metaphors:
Over-literal interpretation of terms like "વિન્ડો" could obscure their symbolic representation of opportunities and fresh perspectives.
1.5.4. Tone Misjudgment:
The playful tone might be mistaken for frivolity, overshadowing the poem's deeper philosophical implications.
1.6. Line-by-Line Summary and Analysis
1.6.1. ઉપવન 'વસન્ત' એવો પાસવર્ડ મોકલે ત્યાં
- Summary: The garden sends a password, signaling the arrival of spring.
- Analysis: Spring is likened to a secured system, accessible only through the garden's password. This metaphor emphasizes exclusivity and reverence.
1.6.2. ફાગણની ખૂલી ગઈ ફાઇલ
- Summary: The file of Phagan (spring) is opened.
- Analysis: Nature's seasonal transition is portrayed as a digital action, suggesting seamless connectivity between the natural and virtual realms.
1.6.3. વૃક્ષોનો સ્ક્રીન આજ એવો રંગીન
- Summary: The trees' screen appears colorful today.
- Analysis: The vivid imagery captures the vibrancy of spring, with trees symbolizing screens displaying nature's beauty.
1.6.4. ભમરાઓ રઘવાયા-આપ્યું ઉદારતાથી
- Summary: Bees generously buzz around, spreading joy.
- Analysis: The metaphorical depiction of bees as messengers highlights nature's magnanimity.
1.6.5. ઝાડ ઝાડ પ્રગટયો ઉમંગ
- Summary: Trees exude enthusiasm.
- Analysis: The personification of trees symbolizes life and energy, resonating with the spirit of spring.
1.7. Glossary of Terms
- ઉપવન (Upvan): Garden; a sanctuary for nature.
- ફાગણ (Phagan): Spring season in the Hindu calendar, symbolizing renewal.
- વિન્ડો (Window): A metaphor for opportunities and perspectives.
- મલયાનિલ (Malay Anil): The gentle spring breeze, symbolic of renewal.
- એસ.એમ.એસ. (SMS): Represents communication and interconnectedness.
1.8. Unresolved Questions
- Why does the poet choose a technological metaphor for spring?
- What is the deeper symbolism behind "પતંગિયાનાં ટોળાં" (flocks of butterflies)?
- Can "પીળા પડવાનો વાઈરસ" also symbolize human struggles?
- How does the juxtaposition of technology and nature challenge traditional aesthetics?
- Does the metaphor of "લવબર્ડ્સ" reflect a broader commentary on relationships?
1.9. Conclusion
Harshadev Madhav’s 'વસન્ત: કોમ્પ્યૂટરની ભાષામાં' invites readers to view spring through a contemporary lens, intertwining the organic and technological. By applying I.A. Richards’ critical framework, we uncover the poem’s rich layers of meaning and its innovative use of language. The poet's unique perspective challenges us to embrace modernity while cherishing nature, making this poem a celebration of harmony in diversity.
2. I.A. Richards’ Lens on Harshadev Madhav’s 'સાઈબર કાફેમાં પ્રેમ પાંગરે'
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| Source: DALL·E 3 - Representational |
● Original Poem:
હવે સાઈબર કાફેમાં પ્રેમ પાંગરે!'દલડાંના 'ઈન્ટરનેટ' એવા વિશાળએની 'નેટ' એ તો આકાશે પાથરે!આંખોની વેબસાઈટ ખૂલું ખૂલું થાય ત્યાં તોએન્ટર થ્યાં સપનાં બે ચારમાઉસ ઉપર લાગણીઓ ટેરવાની ભાષામાંથઈ ગઈ છે ઘોડે સવાર!લંકાની લાડીની આંખોમાં ઘોધાથીનીકળી જહાજ એક નાંગરે!વાંચે દુષ્યન્ત 'ઈ-મેઈલ'-ત્યાં શકુન્તલાનોસ્ક્રીન ઉપર આવ્યો મેસેજ'વીઝા'ની વીંટી તું જ્યારે પહેરાવ ત્યારેઆપણાં છે નક્કી મેરેજ'પાસપોર્ટ સાઈઝ'નો આ કામદેવ સાદ કરેજ્યારે ફિયાન્સી એને સાંભરે!
2.1. Introduction
In Harshadev Madhav's Gujarati poem 'સાઈબર કાફેમાં પ્રેમ પાંગરે,' the timeless theme of love intertwines with the modern backdrop of a cyber café, creating a rich tapestry of metaphors that reflect contemporary romance. This fusion of technology and emotions is analyzed using I.A. Richards' framework from his essay 'Practical Criticism: A Study of Literary Judgment.' By dissecting the poem through the four kinds of meaning—sense, feeling, tone, and intention—along with the two uses of language, this blog explores its depth, themes, and figurative language. Additionally, it identifies potential misunderstandings and unanswered questions to provide a holistic critique.
2.2. Four Kinds of Meaning
2.2.1. Sense
The poem portrays a love story set in a cyber café, using technological metaphors to describe romantic emotions and interactions.
"હવે સાઈબર કાફેમાં પ્રેમ પાંગરે!"
Love blossoms in the cyber café, likened to a digital space where emotions are uploaded and downloaded.
"આંખોની વેબસાઈટ ખૂલું ખૂલું થાય"
The eyes are compared to websites that open up, allowing dreams to "enter."
The imagery of "માઉસ ઉપર લાગણીઓ" personifies emotions as riders on a mouse, symbolizing swift and dynamic feelings.
2.2.2. Feeling
The poem evokes a mix of wonder, excitement, and playfulness.
"દલડાંના 'ઈન્ટરનેટ' એવા વિશાળ"
—conveys the vastness of the internet as a romantic metaphor, sparking awe at the limitless possibilities of modern love.
The playful tone lightens the narrative, such as in—
"પાસપોર્ટ સાઈઝ'નો આ કામદેવ"
—where Cupid is humorously miniaturized into a passport-size image.
2.2.3. Tone
The tone is both humorous and reflective, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.
The poet’s use of colloquial language, like "વાંચે દુષ્યન્ત 'ઈ-મેઈલ'," adds a conversational quality while preserving poetic elegance.
2.2.4. Intention
The poem seeks to redefine love in a digital context, emphasizing the universality of emotions even amidst technological advancements. By juxtaposing traditional elements (Dushyant and Shakuntala) with modern tools (email and screens), the poet bridges eras and highlights the enduring nature of love.
2.3. Thematic Analysis
2.3.1. Technology and Love
At its core, the poem explores the intersection of love and technology. The cyber café serves as a metaphorical space where emotions are transmitted digitally, reflecting the evolving dynamics of relationships in the internet age.
2.3.2. Tradition and Modernity
The inclusion of mythological characters like Dushyant and Shakuntala underscores the continuity of romantic ideals across time, even as the medium of expression shifts.
2.3.3. Connection and Communication
The metaphors of emails, screens, and networks emphasize the theme of connectivity, both literal and emotional. The line—
"વિઝા'ની વીંટી તું જ્યારે પહેરાવ"
—transforms a bureaucratic process into a romantic gesture, symbolizing commitment.
2.4. Figurative Language: Two Uses of Language
2.4.1. Scientific Use
The scientific precision is evident in the poem’s reliance on technical jargon like "ઈ-મેઈલ," "વેબસાઈટ," and "માઉસ." These terms ground the poem in the reality of the digital age, enhancing relatability.
2.4.2. Emotive Use
The emotive richness comes from personifications and metaphors that elevate everyday technology into symbols of love. For example:
"જહાજ એક નાંગરે"
—(a ship anchors) symbolizes stability amidst the fleeting nature of digital interactions.
2.5. Line-by-Line Summary and Analysis
2.5.1. હવે સાઈબર કાફેમાં પ્રેમ પાંગરે!
- Summary: Love begins to bloom in a cyber café.
- Analysis: The café symbolizes a modern meeting ground, transforming into a digital Eden where emotions thrive.
2.5.2. દલડાંના 'ઈન્ટરનેટ' એવા વિશાળ
- Summary: The internet’s vastness mirrors the boundless nature of love.
- Analysis: The metaphor captures the limitless possibilities of connection and exploration in both the digital and emotional realms.
2.5.3. આંખોની વેબસાઈટ ખૂલું ખૂલું થાય
- Summary: Eyes open like websites, allowing dreams to flow in.
- Analysis: This personification bridges human emotions and digital processes, highlighting vulnerability and openness.
2.5.4. માઉસ ઉપર લાગણીઓ ટેરવાની ભાષામાં
- Summary: Emotions ride on the mouse, symbolizing dynamic feelings.
- Analysis: The mouse becomes a metaphor for the swift and unpredictable nature of love.
2.5.5. વીઝા'ની વીંટી તું જ્યારે પહેરાવ ત્યારે
- Summary: The act of giving a visa ring signifies a promise of marriage.
- Analysis: The poet humorously integrates administrative processes into romantic symbolism, reinforcing love's adaptability.
2.6. Glossary of Terms
- સાઈબર કાફે (Cyber Café): A space for internet access, representing modern connectivity.
- દલડાં (Dalda): A traditional reference, metaphorically highlighting vastness.
- વીઝા (Visa): A symbol of official commitment, repurposed as a romantic gesture.
- માઉસ (Mouse): Represents control and navigation in digital and emotional contexts.
- સ્ક્રીન (Screen): A surface for projections, symbolizing openness and transparency.
2.7. Misunderstandings in Interpretation
2.7.1. Literal vs. Metaphorical:
A literal reading might misinterpret "જહાજ નાંગરે" as a physical ship rather than an emotional anchor.
2.7.2. Cultural Context:
Non-Gujarati readers may miss the nuances of terms like "દલડાં," which carries traditional connotations.
2.7.3. Tone Misjudgment:
The playful tone might overshadow the underlying depth, leading to a superficial interpretation.
2.7.4. Symbolic Complexity:
The blend of mythological and modern references could confuse readers unfamiliar with Gujarati culture or the story of Dushyant and Shakuntala.
2.8. Unanswered Questions
- Why does the poet juxtapose ancient characters with modern technology?
- Is the metaphor of "પાંગરે" intended to evoke a specific image of growth?
- Can "વીઝા'ની વીંટી" also symbolize societal constraints on love?
- How does the poet view the transient nature of digital interactions?
- Does the use of "માઉસ" signify control in relationships?
2.9. Conclusion
Harshadev Madhav’s 'સાઈબર કાફેમાં પ્રેમ પાંગરે' is a poetic marvel that navigates the complexities of love in a digital landscape. By weaving technological metaphors with traditional ideals, the poet challenges readers to rethink the boundaries of connection and intimacy. Applying I.A. Richards’ framework enriches the understanding of this poem, revealing its intricate layers of meaning and emotional resonance. In an era where love is increasingly mediated by screens, this poem serves as both a reflection and a celebration of how relationships adapt and flourish.
References:
1. Barad, Dilip. “I.A. Richards: The Figurative Language | Practical Criticism.” ResearchGate, Jan. 2024, https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.23687.98724.
2. ---. “Just Poems.” Dilip Barad | Teacher Blog, 23 Sept. 2015, blog.dilipbarad.com/2015/09/just-poems.html. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.
3. Richards, Ivor Armstrong. Practical Criticism: A Study of Literary Judgment. Harper Perennial, 1956.
