ABOUT THE POEM:

In this poem, LIKE A CHILD’S BABBLE Avvaiyar lovingly addresses Neduman Anji, the mighty king who conquered many enemy fortresses. She humbly compares her poetry to the meaningless yet endearing babbling of a child. Though a child’s speech may lack musical sweetness, rhythm or clear meaning, it still wins the affection of its father. In the same way, the poet believes that even if her songs are imperfect, they will still receive the king’s kindness, appreciation, and gracious acceptance. The poem beautifully expresses humility, devotion and the deep bond between a poet and her patron.

LIKE A CHILD’S BABBLE

O Neduman Anji, conqueror bold,

Who shattered foemen’s forts of old!

A child’s sweet babble, soft and bright,

Is not like harp-strings tuned aright;

It knows not measure, time or art,

Nor speaks in ways that stir the heart.

Its words are vague, its meanings stray,

No sense shines clear in what they say;

And yet the father, filled with grace,

Receives that prattle with embrace.

So too my songs—though poor they seem,

Not wrought with music’s perfect theme—

Still find their worth, their blessed place,

Within the shelter of your grace.

PURANANURU - 92

POET: AVVAIYAR

PATRON:ADHIYAMAN NEDUMAN ANJI