Themes in Daruwalla‘s works

Keki N. Daruwalla’s works are a rich tapestry of themes that reflect the complexities of human existence, society, and history. As one of India’s most celebrated contemporary poets writing in English, Daruwalla’s poetry and prose delve into a myriad of subjects, offering profound insights into the human condition. In this exploration, we will delve into some of the prominent themes that pervade Daruwalla’s works, examining how they are manifested and what significance they hold within his literary oeuvre.

1. History and Memory

History and memory are recurrent themes in Daruwalla’s works, reflecting his fascination with the past and its enduring impact on the present. Through his poetry and prose, Daruwalla often revisits historical events, both monumental and mundane, to unravel their significance and explore their resonance in contemporary times.

In poems like “The Landour Cookbook” and “Poona Traffic,” Daruwalla employs historical anecdotes and personal reminiscences to evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflection. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, he transports readers to different epochs, inviting them to witness the passage of time and contemplate the ways in which history shapes individual and collective identities.

Moreover, Daruwalla’s engagement with history extends beyond mere recollection; it serves as a lens through which he critiques contemporary society and politics. In poems like “Crossing the Border” and “The Rusted Hand Grenade,” Daruwalla confronts the legacies of colonialism, partition, and communal violence, highlighting the enduring scars they leave on the social fabric. By interrogating the complexities of India’s past, Daruwalla prompts readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the present and imagine alternative futures.

2. Identity and Belonging

Identity and belonging are central concerns in Daruwalla’s works, reflecting his own experiences as a Parsi growing up in postcolonial India. Through his poetry and prose, Daruwalla grapples with questions of cultural heritage, diasporic identity, and the search for a sense of belonging in a rapidly changing world.

In poems like “A Summer Tale” and “A Hindu Wife in Kabul,” Daruwalla explores the tension between tradition and modernity, as characters navigate the complexities of cultural identity in a globalized society. Whether it’s the Parsi community’s struggle to preserve its traditions in the face of cultural assimilation or the diasporic experience of displacement and longing, Daruwalla’s works resonate with the universal quest for self-discovery and acceptance.

Moreover, Daruwalla’s exploration of identity extends beyond the individual to encompass broader questions of national and cultural identity. In poems like “The Mughal Feast” and “The Profiteer,” Daruwalla interrogates the mythologies that underpin Indian nationalism, exposing the contradictions and complexities inherent in the construction of national identity. By challenging conventional narratives and celebrating the diversity of Indian culture, Daruwalla invites readers to embrace complexity and nuance in their understanding of identity and belonging.

3. Nature and the Environment

Nature and the environment emerge as recurring motifs in Daruwalla’s works, reflecting his deep reverence for the natural world and concern for its preservation. Through his poetry and prose, Daruwalla celebrates the beauty and majesty of the natural world while also lamenting its degradation at the hands of human exploitation and greed.

In poems like “The Hawk” and “Under Orion,” Daruwalla captures the awe-inspiring grandeur of nature, using vivid imagery and sensory language to evoke the sights, sounds, and smells of the wilderness. Whether it’s the soaring flight of a hawk or the twinkling of stars in the night sky, Daruwalla’s depictions of nature invite readers to pause and contemplate the wonders of the natural world. continue reading…