- Understand the conflict in the poet's conscience.
- Analyze changes in poetic expression from Donne to Kamala Das:
- Prosodic features (rhyme, rhythm, and metre)
- Vocabulary
- Language
- Themes
- Explore the authenticity of the depiction of a crumbling village house in the poem.
- Discuss the aspects of Indian society and history highlighted in the poem.
- Illustrate the contrast between tradition and modernity as presented in the poem.
- Identify lines that reveal the poet's respect for and revolt against her grandmother's sentiments.
- Critique the poet's views on class distinctions as expressed in the poem.
- Examine the reasons behind the poet's decision not to rebuild the house despite her childhood promise.
Blood
Learning Objectives
Detailed Notes
Notes on Kamala Das's Poetry
Overview of Kamala Das
- Birth: 1934 in Punnayurkulum, South Malabar, Kerala
- Death: 2009
- Significance: A major figure in Malayalam literature and Indian writing in English, known for feminist themes and explorations of womanhood.
- Awards:
- Poetry Award for the Asian PEN Anthology
- Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for best collection of short stories in Malayalam
- Chaman Lal Award for fearless journalism
Themes in Her Poetry
- Conflict in Conscience: The poet grapples with her identity and heritage, reflecting on the tension between tradition and modernity.
- Cultural Heritage: The depiction of ancestral homes and familial ties highlights the importance of cultural roots.
- Class Distinctions: Critique of social hierarchies is evident, particularly in the contrast between the 'oldest blood' and the 'new-rich'.
Poetic Expression
Changes from Donne to Kamala Das
- Prosodic Features: Variations in rhyme, rhythm, and metre reflect evolving poetic styles.
- Vocabulary: The language has shifted to incorporate more contemporary and personal expressions.
- Themes: A transition from metaphysical concerns to personal and societal issues.
Notable Works
- The Old Playhouse and Other Poems
- Summer in Calcutta
- The Descendants
Analysis of
Practice & Assessment
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