2.2 Poetic Appreciation of “Indian Weavers” by Sarojini Naidu

1. Title:
   
   The title “Indian Weavers” is simple yet symbolic. It refers to the skilled craftsmen of India who are not just weaving fabrics but also metaphorically weaving the stages of human life. The title instantly captures the reader’s attention and sets the tone for a poem deeply rooted in Indian tradition and philosophy.

2. About the Poet:
   
   Sarojini Naidu, also known as the “Nightingale of India,” was a poet, freedom fighter, and orator. Her poetry often blends Indian culture with deep emotions and vivid imagery. In this poem, she uses the symbol of weaving to portray the journey of life — from birth to death.

3. Theme:
   
   The main theme of the poem is the cycle of human life. Through the weavers’ work at different times of the day, the poet symbolically presents the three major phases of life: birth (morning), youth (evening), and death (night). Each stanza reflects a specific stage, showing how life changes and moves forward.

4. Mood:
   
   The mood of the poem varies with each stanza. The first stanza is joyful and innocent (birth), the second is vibrant and energetic (youth and marriage), and the third is solemn and peaceful (death). These emotional transitions reflect the natural flow of human life.

5. Language and Style:
   
   The language is simple, lyrical, and symbolic. The poem follows a question-answer format that creates curiosity and rhythm. The use of repetition and parallel structure enhances the musical quality of the poem.

6. Figures of Speech:
   
   The poet uses metaphor, symbolism, alliteration, and imagery. For example, “blue as the wing of a halcyon wild” is a metaphor suggesting peace and new beginnings.

7. Imagery:
   
   Vivid imagery is a strong feature. The blue robe (birth), purple and green veil (marriage), and white shroud (death) visually represent life’s stages through color.

8. Message:
   
   The poem delivers a powerful message about the impermanence and beauty of life. It suggests that life is woven with different threads, each stage having its own value and color.