Member-only story

Select English Poems: A Journey Through Parthasarathy's Literary Landscape

Forrest Blair

·6.6k Followers· Follow

Published in Select English Poems A Parthasarathy

5 min read

454 View Claps

46 Respond

Save

Listen

In the tapestry of contemporary English literature, R. Parthasarathy's "Select English Poems" stands as a beacon of literary brilliance. This profound collection, a testament to Parthasarathy's masterful command of language and his acute understanding of the human condition, has captivated readers around the world since its publication in 1982.

Thematic Explorations

At the heart of "Select English Poems" lies a profound exploration of identity, culture, and the human condition. Parthasarathy's poems grapple with the complexities of being an Indian writer navigating the worlds of both East and West. They confront the cultural clashes, the search for belonging, and the enduring questions of self and purpose.

Select English Poems

by A. Parthasarathy

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3159 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	136 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

In "An Indian Summer," for example, Parthasarathy juxtaposes his experiences in England with his memories of India to create a poignant reflection on displacement and the longing for home. The poem opens with a vivid description of an English summer, with its "green fields" and "flowering hedgerows," yet the speaker's heart yearns for the "dust and heat" of his native land.

Through his lyrical language and keen observations, Parthasarathy illuminates the universal themes that transcend cultural boundaries. His poems resonate with the human experience of love, loss, longing, and the search for meaning in a complex and ever-changing world.

Lyrical Language

Parthasarathy's command of language is one of the defining features of "Select English Poems." His words flow effortlessly across the page, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of sound and imagery. He employs a wide range of poetic techniques, including metaphors, similes, and personification, to bring his poems vividly to life.

In "Landscape of a Departure," Parthasarathy describes the landscape of his childhood with a painterly eye, using evocative imagery that transports the reader to the heart of his memory. The poem's opening lines, "The palmyra palm at the edge of the village, / its leaves etched against the sky," capture the essence of a rural Indian scene with stunning precision.

Parthasarathy's use of language is not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply meaningful. His words carry a weight and significance that linger long after the poem has been read.

Enduring Relevance

Over four decades since its publication, "Select English Poems" continues to resonate with readers from all walks of life. Its themes of identity, culture, and the human condition remain as relevant today as they were at the time of its writing.

In an increasingly globalized world, where cultures and identities collide and merge, Parthasarathy's poems offer a timeless exploration of the challenges and rewards of navigating this complex landscape. His insights into the complexities of the human heart speak to readers across generations and cultures.

Critical Reception

"Select English Poems" has received widespread critical acclaim for its literary excellence and enduring relevance. Critics have praised Parthasarathy's masterful use of language, his profound insights into the human condition, and his unique perspective as an Indian writer writing in English.

In a review for "The New York Times Book Review," the poet and critic John Ashbery lauded Parthasarathy's "subtle and complex" exploration of "the nature of identity and the meaning of home." He praised the poet's ability to "convey the rich inner life of a people and a culture" through his own personal experiences.

The renowned Indian critic C.D. Narasimhaiah described "Select English Poems" as "an important landmark in the history of Indian writing in English." He praised Parthasarathy's "virtuosity of language" and his "rare gift" for combining personal experience with universal insights.

R. Parthasarathy's "Select English Poems" is a seminal work of contemporary literature that continues to captivate and inspire readers around the world. Through its profound exploration of identity, culture, and the human condition, its lyrical language, and its enduring relevance, this collection stands as a testament to the power of poetry to illuminate the depths of our shared human experience.

Whether you are a seasoned lover of poetry or a newcomer to the genre, "Select English Poems" is an essential read. Its timeless themes and masterful language will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your mind and heart.

Select English Poems

by A. Parthasarathy

4.9 out of 5