Overpassing the Bounds of Decorum

Name: Overpassing the Bounds of Decorum
Author: Thiruvalluvar

The work explores the intense emotional turmoil experienced by lovers separated from one another. It delves into the depths of longing and desire, illustrating how such feelings can overwhelm one's sense of decorum and propriety. The imagery of riding the palmyra stalk symbolizes the struggle to cope with unfulfilled love and the lengths to which individuals will go to express their passion. The male voice reflects on his suffering, revealing how the pain of separation has stripped him of dignity and composure. He likens his emotional state to being adrift on a turbulent stream, where his previous strength and delicacy have been replaced by a desperate reliance on the metaphorical palm-stalk. His thoughts are consumed by the beloved, whose beauty and innocence intensify his anguish. Conversely, the female voice articulates her own internal conflict. She acknowledges the power of her passion, which disregards her modesty and kindness. Her feelings are so profound that they manifest outwardly, leading to public humiliation as others mock her unreciprocated love. The juxtaposition of their experiences highlights the universal nature of love's trials, emphasizing both the vulnerability and resilience inherent in such emotional bonds. Throughout the work, the themes of desire, shame, and the struggle for emotional expression are prevalent. The characters grapple with their feelings in a society that often imposes strictures on love and decorum. The narrative ultimately serves as a poignant reflection on the complexities of human relationships, illustrating how love can elevate and devastate simultaneously. The exploration of these themes invites readers to consider the profound impact of love on the human experience, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries.

By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2000 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Philosophy · 256 words

First lines

To those who are torn from their loved one and suffer the pangs of their passion there is no other resource left but the riding of the palmyra stalk.50

Body and soul cannot support this anguish and have consented to ride the palm: they have trampled down all shame.

Firmness and delicacy I had formerly: but now I possess only the stalk of the palmyra that is ridden by the lovelorn lover.

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Overpassing the Bounds of Decorum is listed on Textopian as a poem by Thiruvalluvar, dated 2000 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Thiruvalluvar
Date: 2000 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romance, Philosophy, Drama, Lyric
Length: 256 words
Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work employs poetic language and structure, focusing on emotional expression and imagery.
Romance — The themes revolve around love, longing, and the emotional turmoil associated with romantic relationships.
Philosophy — The text explores deeper insights into human emotions and the nature of passion, reflecting philosophical themes.
Drama — The intense emotional conflict and character experiences create a dramatic narrative.