Sighing for the Absent One
The work explores the profound emotions associated with love and longing, articulated through a dialogue between two lovers. The male voice expresses the sweetness of love, emphasizing that even memories of the beloved bring joy and alleviate sorrow. He reflects on the deep connection they share, suggesting that love transcends physical presence. In contrast, the female voice reveals her insecurities and doubts about her place in his heart. She questions whether he thinks of her as she thinks of him, expressing a sense of exclusion and yearning. Her love is intertwined with pain, as she feels that the memory of their union is her only source of life. The intensity of her feelings is palpable, as she grapples with the fear of forgetting him and the anguish of his perceived cruelty. The imagery of the moon serves as a poignant symbol of hope and longing, as she implores it not to set until she can reunite with her beloved. The dialogue captures the essence of love's duality—its capacity to bring joy and sorrow, connection and separation. The work ultimately reflects on the enduring nature of love, where memories and emotions intertwine, creating a complex tapestry of human experience.
By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2004 · Genre: Romantic Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Philosophical Literature · 266 words
First lines
He
Even in the recollection love is sweet with endless delights: love is therefore sweeter than wine.
The moment I recall the image of my loved one to my mind, that very moment all my sorrow is vanquished: ah, love is dear in all its aspects!
She
What this Textopian page supports
Sighing for the Absent One is listed on Textopian as a poem by Thiruvalluvar, dated 2004 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Thiruvalluvar
- Date: 2004 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Romantic Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Philosophical Literature, Classical Literature, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 266 words
- Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Bewailing The Pangs Of Separation And Pining Away by Thiruvalluvar
- Reading Of The Heart By Signs by Thiruvalluvar
- Inert Perfection by Edna St Vincent Millay
- The Pangs Of Separation by Thiruvalluvar
- She Is Overheard Singing by Edna St Vincent Millay
- You And I by Voltairine De Cleyre
Genres
- Romantic Poetry — The work explores themes of love, longing, and emotional connection, characteristic of romantic poetry.
- Lyric Poetry — The personal expression of feelings and emotions aligns with the conventions of lyric poetry.
- Philosophical Literature — The reflections on love and existence suggest deeper philosophical inquiries about relationships and identity.
- Classical Literature — The style and themes are consistent with classical literary traditions, particularly in the context of ancient Indian literature.
Tags
Tamil Literature · Poetry · Philosophy · Love · Longing · Separation · Spirituality · Moral Guidance · Ethics · Human Nature · Emotions · Psychology