POEM
5. Soft Storm
by Abhi Subedi
SUMMARY
Abhi
Subedi's poem "Soft Storm" unfolds in free verse, weaving a tapestry
of natural and societal descriptions. While it appears to chronicle a journey
through the nighttime streets of Kathmandu, it carries a deeper message about
the indifference and suffering in Nepalese society. The poem masterfully melds
these two dimensions, creating a poignant commentary on the contemporary situation.
The
opening stanza sets the stage by juxtaposing the turbulent social milieu with
the calmness of nature. The chaos and tumult in the society are painted with
words like "eerie" and "tumult," contrasting starkly with
the imagery of blooming crocuses reaching for the sky. This imagery symbolizes
hope amidst adversity, suggesting the resilience of nature. However, as the moon
wanes, the poem shifts to discussions of politics and social activities,
hinting at the superficiality and rhetoric that sometimes dominate public
discourse.
In
the second stanza, the poem takes a darker turn, exposing the harsh realities
of homeless and parentless children crying for food and shelter. This portrayal
serves as a critique of corrupt political leaders who prioritize personal gain
over the welfare of their constituents, leaving vulnerable children in dire
straits. The poet's lamentations highlight the perilous future that these
forsaken children face due to a society marred by systemic flaws.
The
third stanza paints a vivid picture of the city's paradoxical duality. Amidst
the revelry of skyscrapers and parties, the poet yearns for the genuine freedom
that has been eroded. This nostalgia for simpler times is contrasted with the
suffering he witnesses among his fellow citizens.
Throughout
the poem, stark images of suffering and indifference persist. The poet's
descriptions of a lost child, a man beaten before his family, and the locked
voice of the oppressed reveal a society rife with injustice and apathy. These
portrayals provoke a sense of rebellion against the system, urging for change
and justice.
The
closing stanzas reiterate the need for liberation, not just for the poet but
for all beings. The speaker's desire to dance freely, unburdened by societal
restrictions, is a plea for collective emancipation. As the poem concludes, the
vision of a beautiful sky and the harmony of nature's sounds serve as a
poignant reminder of the potential for unity and peace.
In
"Soft Storm," Abhi Subedi crafts a tapestry of vivid imagery and
nuanced emotion. Through his seamless interweaving of natural elements and
societal critique, he captures the complexities of contemporary Nepalese
society, reflecting its tumultuous spirit and the yearning for a more just and
harmonious world. The poem's artful blending of the personal and the universal
invites readers to reflect on the impact of indifference, the potential for
change, and the enduring power of hope.
Understanding the text
Answer the following questions.
a. When does the speaker grow soft? Enlist the occasions when he
grows soft.
The
speaker in the poem "Soft Storm" grows soft on various occasions.
Firstly, when he hears the tumult and witnesses the disorder in the
environment, he experiences a softened perspective. Secondly, the imagery of
the sky growing "like crocuses" symbolizes hope and softness in the
face of adversity. Thirdly, as the moon wanes, he grows soft as he reflects on
the language of politics and posters. Fourthly, he softens upon witnessing
homeless children crying due to hunger and deprivation in the streets of
Thamel. Additionally, he becomes soft-hearted when he observes a forlorn child
desperately searching for his mother. His compassion is further stirred by the
sight of a man being mercilessly beaten before his family. These instances
highlight the emotional impact that suffering and injustice have on the
speaker, prompting him to feel empathy and a desire for change.
b. What do you understand by 'this seamless city'?
"This
seamless city" refers to a city characterized by smoothness and
uninterrupted movement, both physically and metaphorically. In the context of the
poem "Soft Storm," it signifies a city where people can move about
freely, unburdened by societal constraints and obstacles. It suggests a place
where individuals can experience true freedom and happiness without the
hindrances of inequality, injustice, or discrimination. The term
"seamless" implies a lack of divisions or barriers, where people can
interact and live harmoniously. This concept reflects the poet's yearning for a
society devoid of social and political interruptions, where the essence of genuine
freedom can be savored by all inhabitants, fostering unity and well-being.
c. Describe the poor children portrayed in the poem.
The
poem portrays poor and destitute children who are homeless and parentless.
These children are depicted as crying out of hunger and poverty in the vicinity
of the bat-bearing trees in Kesharmahal, a part of Thamel. The imagery of their
cries reflects their desperate circumstances, as they lack basic necessities
like food and shelter. These children are emblematic of the marginalized and
disadvantaged individuals in society, suffering due to systemic inequalities.
The poem highlights their vulnerability and the harsh reality they face,
emphasizing the failure of the societal system to ensure their rights and
well-being. This portrayal serves as a critique of the societal and political
forces that neglect and disregard the plight of these young individuals who are
entitled to the protections enshrined in the constitution.
d. What do you understand by the unwedded gardens of history'?
The
phrase "unwedded gardens of history" refers to the forgotten or
neglected episodes of the past, particularly those that did not receive the
recognition or attention they deserved. In the context of the poem, "Soft
Storm," it symbolizes the unexplored and suppressed incidents in Nepalese
society, characterized by disorder and lawlessness due to social and political
hegemony. These incidents are like untended gardens, left to wither and remain
unacknowledged in the annals of history. The term implies a state of neglect
and abandonment, suggesting that certain aspects of the society's past have
been overlooked or deliberately omitted. It serves as a commentary on the
prevailing chaos and power dynamics that have contributed to the marginalization
of certain historical events and experiences.
e. Why was the forlorn child wailing?
The
forlorn child was wailing due to the distressing absence of his mother and
other loved ones in the contemporary society. The poem "Soft Storm"
portrays this child as lost and panicked, searching desperately for his family
members. His wailing reflects his helplessness and vulnerability in a world
where familial bonds have been disrupted or severed. This image serves as a
poignant representation of the disarray and social upheaval prevalent in the
society. The child's cries become a poignant symbol of the larger societal
issues, highlighting the loss of connections, the breakdown of relationships,
and the overall sense of abandonment that can arise amidst the chaos and
indifference present in the modern world.
f. What do you understand by 'soft storm'?
The
term "soft storm," as used in Abhi Subedi's poem, combines seemingly
contradictory words to evoke a complex emotional and societal experience. In
this context, "soft storm" refers to the inner turmoil and
disturbances experienced by the poet in response to the chaotic and tumultuous
environment of contemporary society. The juxtaposition of "soft" with
"storm" creates a paradox, suggesting a nuanced blend of emotions.
While "soft" implies a gentle or subdued quality, "storm"
signifies turmoil and upheaval. By combining these words, the poet conveys the
idea of a profound inner conflict stirred by the disarray and disorder
prevalent in society. The term captures the poet's attempt to articulate the
tumultuous emotions and thoughts he feels in response to the prevailing chaos,
injustices, and indifference around him.
g. Why does the speaker call our time 'mad time'?
The
speaker labels our time as a 'mad time' due to the rampant chaos and lack of
order that seems to prevail in contemporary society. This description
underscores the speaker's perception of a society that is not governed by the
principles of justice, constitution, or law. The term "mad time"
alludes to the uncontrolled and unruly situation, where corruption, political
biases, social injustices, and disregard for laws are pervasive. This chaotic
environment, characterized by degradation of nature, animal laws, and societal
turmoil, prompts the speaker to view the era as one marked by irrationality and
a lack of rational governance. The phrase "mad time" captures the
speaker's critique of the prevailing societal norms and the perceived loss of
ethical values and order in the present day.
h. What does the speaker want to do in "hard times"?
In
the context of the poem, the speaker expresses the desire to "melt like a
rainbow in 'hard times'," symbolizing a wish to maintain his compassionate
and empathetic nature even in challenging circumstances. The phrase implies
that despite the difficulties and adversity that life presents ("hard
times"), the speaker wants to retain his sensitivity and soft-heartedness.
By using the image of a rainbow, which is often associated with beauty and a
range of colors, the speaker conveys his aspiration to bring a sense of
brightness and positivity even when facing difficulties. This desire highlights
the speaker's determination to remain true to his compassionate nature and not
let the harsh realities of life harden his heart.
Reference to the context
a. The poet uses the word 'soft' with the words like 'storm' and
'gale', which generally refer to disorder and violence. What effect does the
poet achieve through the use of such anomolous expressions?
The
poet employs anomalous expressions like 'soft storm' and 'softness rose like a
gale,' which juxtapose contradictory concepts. These unconventional
combinations create a paradoxical effect, disrupting the typical associations
between words and their meanings. The poet achieves a multi-layered impact
through this technique. Psychologically, it stirs the reader's imagination,
prompting them to delve deeper into the juxtaposed ideas. Socially, it mirrors
the complexities of contemporary society, which is marked by contradictory
forces and emotions. Politically, it reflects the incongruities and ambiguities
present in power dynamics and societal norms. Environmentally, it symbolizes
the blend of beauty and strength found in nature. By connecting opposing
notions, the poet not only captures the inherent contradictions in life but
also emphasizes the intricate interplay of different elements. The anomalous
expressions serve as a vehicle for the poet to express his thoughts, feelings,
and observations about the world around him, infusing the poem with a rich
complexity and inviting readers to interpret and engage with the text on
multiple levels.
b. What is the speaker's attitude towards the time he describes
in the poem?
The
speaker's attitude towards the time he describes in the poem is largely
negative and critical. The setting of the poem during the night, with the moon
shining but not as brightly as the sun, sets a somber tone. The speaker
perceives the passage of time as chaotic and disorderly, labeling it as a
"mad time." He observes that events occur unexpectedly and
inconsistently, reflecting his disillusionment with the unpredictability of
life. The speaker's use of anomalous expressions, such as "soft
storm" and "softness rose like a gale," further emphasizes his
conflicted view of the time, where contradictory elements coexist. Overall, the
speaker's attitude conveys a sense of dissatisfaction and frustration with the
disorder and social turmoil that characterize the contemporary era.
c. What is the speaker like? Is he a rebel? Why? Why not?
The
speaker exhibits rebellious traits, but his rebellion is not overt or radical.
He resembles a rebel as he challenges the prevailing social norms, political
dynamics, and environmental degradation depicted in the poem. His observations
of the chaotic and unjust society, along with his use of anomalous expressions,
reflect his dissent against the status quo. However, his rebellion is presented
in a subdued and suppressed manner. The speaker's rebellion is more a
reflection of his inner turmoil, empathy, and sensitivity to the issues he
observes. His critique of corruption, social indifference, and political chaos
signifies his opposition to the prevailing order. While he may not engage in
open defiance, his contemplative and critical attitude demonstrates his
rebellion against the injustices and disorder he perceives in his surroundings.
d. Explain the stanza below in your own words :
I became soft
when I saw
a blood-stained shirt
speaking in the earth’s ears
with bruised human lips
in the far corner
under the moon
of history and dreams
playing hide and seek
in open museums
of human times.
In
the fourth stanza of the poem "Soft Storm" by Abhi Subedi, the poet
describes a poignant scene. He recounts encountering a man wearing a
blood-stained shirt and having bruised lips. This man is depicted as being
unable to speak, as his voice is figuratively locked by the powerful elite of
society. The stanza evokes a sense of helplessness and oppression, suggesting
that the man's voice and rights have been silenced by those in positions of
authority. The mention of "hide and seek" implies a power dynamic
reminiscent of a game, where the disadvantaged workers are at the mercy of the
landowners. This stanza serves as a powerful commentary on the unequal
distribution of power and the suffering of the marginalized individuals in the
society. The vivid imagery of the blood-stained shirt and bruised lips
highlights the physical and emotional pain endured by this individual, while
the metaphor of locked speech underscores the suppression of their rights and
voices.
Reference beyond the text
a. Write an essay, highlighting your dissatisfaction towards
social, cultural, economic and political issues prevailing in Nepal at present.
Social,
cultural, Economic and Political Issues Prevailing in Nepal
The
present state of Nepal is marred by a myriad of social, cultural, economic, and
political issues that are deeply concerning. These issues collectively hinder
the nation's progress and development, leaving much room for dissatisfaction
and concern.
In
the realm of politics, the competitive multiparty democratic system, though
designed to provide stability, often witnesses frequent changes in leadership
and lack of continuity in policies. Rule of law, human rights, and
constitutional rights are ideals that are more often stated than practiced,
leading to a disconnect between governance and the well-being of the citizens.
Political leaders often engage in divisive and self-serving tactics,
disregarding the needs and aspirations of the people.
On
the social and economic fronts, deeply entrenched caste systems like that of
Dalits perpetuate discrimination and exclusion, limiting opportunities and
perpetuating social inequality. The prevalence of corruption, nepotism, and
favoritism further erodes public trust in institutions. While Nepal has made
strides in poverty reduction, a significant portion of the population still
lives below the poverty line, indicating the persistent economic challenges
faced by the nation's citizens.
Culturally,
issues like gender inequality, violence against women, and trafficking are
prominent concerns that reflect deeply rooted social norms and attitudes that
need to be addressed. The limitations on women's rights and their access to
education and opportunities hinder the nation's progress towards gender
equality.
All
these issues create a web of challenges that impede Nepal's overall development
and well-being. However, it is important to note that dissatisfaction and
concern also reflect a desire for positive change. Many individuals,
organizations, and communities within Nepal are working tirelessly to address
these issues and bring about transformative improvements.
Efforts
to address these problems need to involve systemic reforms, educational
campaigns, and greater social awareness. Building a more transparent and
accountable political culture, eradicating discrimination, promoting economic
inclusivity, and challenging harmful cultural norms are essential steps toward
a more equitable and prosperous Nepal. By acknowledging these issues and
fostering a collective commitment to change, Nepal can pave the way for a
brighter future for all its citizens.
b. Suppose you are a rebel, who wants to change the society by
eliminating malpractices and anomalies prevailing in the society. Draft a
speech outlining your vision for change.
Ladies
and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and my fellow advocates for change.
Today,
we gather with a shared vision and a collective determination to address the
malpractices and anomalies that are corroding the very fabric of our society. I
stand before you as a rebel, not against our nation's essence, but against the
injustices that mar its progress and potential. It is high time we rise above
complacency and ignite the flames of transformation.
Our
society bears the burden of social evils that hinder our growth and harmony.
Alcoholism, racism, child abuse – these are not merely statistics but wounds
that bleed our collective soul. Let us be the architects of change and demolish
these pillars of injustice. Let our actions speak volumes against these
atrocities.
The
caste system, an ancient vice, continues to haunt our land. It shackles the
marginalized, perpetuates inequality, and sows discord. We must break these
chains and stand united as one nation, where every citizen is afforded equal
opportunities and rights. Child labor and child marriage rob our youth of their
potential, shackling them to a cycle of despair. Education is the key that
unlocks their future, and it's our duty to ensure they receive it.
Illiteracy,
the breeding ground of ignorance, is a challenge we must face head-on. We are
the torchbearers of knowledge, and it's our duty to light the path for those
lost in darkness. Poverty, the shadow that threatens our nation's aspirations,
can only be dispelled through education, skill development, and employment
generation.
Gender
inequality tarnishes our society's conscience. We must erase the lines that
segregate us based on gender and embrace a future where every individual's
potential is nurtured, regardless of their gender. Sanitation and hygiene are
not just matters of cleanliness; they reflect our collective responsibility to
maintain a healthy society. Let's make our environment a reflection of our
values.
Change
will not come by mere words but by deliberate action. We must work tirelessly
to educate, sensitize, and uplift our fellow citizens. Our government has a
pivotal role to play in shaping policies that address these issues and empower
the marginalized. But change isn't solely the government's duty; it's ours as
well.
In
the words of Albert Einstein, "The world is a dangerous place to live, not
because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do
anything about it." Let's be the catalysts of change that our society
yearns for. Let's empower every citizen, stand up against injustice, and create
a Nepal where opportunities are abundant, where the marginalized are empowered,
and where compassion and equality are our guiding principles.
Thank
you, and let's march forward together, united in our pursuit of a brighter
future for our nation.
Best of Luck
.jpg)
