I will Embrace Only the Sun By Tripuraneni Srinivas (1963-1996)

About the Poet Tripuraneni is a Telgu poet Known for his distinct expression of native language Telgu. The present poem is a part of his collection of poems in Telgu titled Rahasyaodyamam or Secret Movement The poem ‘I will Embrace Only the Sun’ has been translated into English by K Damodar Rao

The General Theme of the Poem An appeal for originality and vitality in life The subjectivity of the poem lies in the use of first person narratorial voice in ‘I’, hence gaining intensity in meaning and focus. However, the poem moves beyond subjectivity to universality in conveying general message for the mankind in favor of innovation and change.

Development of Thought The poet expresses his concern for those who carve their identity as a blind imitation of others There is a strong message that a human should not become exact copy of someone else conveyed through the imagery of mirror that only reflects the image. The sensitivity and a sense of responsibility in the poet is reflected through his feelings of sorrows for the people being witnessed by “sky” and the “oceans” which are two centuries old

The poet is determined to recreate and reshape his ideas for the betterment of humanity The poem expresses a firm belief that the progress of civilization depends upon the continuous rebirth and creation of ideas through the use of imagination. That is why the poet likes the “ song” that defies “total comprehension.”

The poet wishes to motivate people to make a mark of their own on the slate of human history in the line “I am instructing man how to sign” In a revolutionary zeal, the poet loves to break all the mirrors as the mirrors only signify reflection, a copy and nothing original Lastly, the poet takes up the image of moon and says “I can not love the moon” for the moon is a mere medium containing no light of its own as it borrows its brilliance from sun.

The poet is certain to “embrace the sun” as the sun stands for energy, originality and exuberance. He wishes to embrace sun even at the cost of his life, suggesting risks on the paths of those who think differently. Nevertheless, there is a great feeling of fulfillment and satisfaction in doing so.

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