The Awakening Age

Understanding the text

Answer the following questions.

a. Who are the people ‘who travel the meridian line’?

The people referred to as "who travel the meridian line" are individuals who navigate through life, possibly symbolizing those who seek progress, enlightenment, or a new understanding of the world.

b. What does the poet mean by ‘a new world’?

The poet refers to "a new world" as a metaphorical concept representing a transformed society or a paradigm shift in human perception and experience. It signifies a vision of a better future, filled with hope, equality, and harmony.

c. How are people connected to each other?

The poem suggests that people are connected to each other through shared experiences, history, and aspirations. They are linked together in hope and are described as being woven together, like a mountain rope. This implies a sense of unity, interdependence, and the recognition that individual actions and achievements contribute to the collective progress of humanity.

d. What can we gain after our perceptions are changed?

The poet suggests that after our perceptions are changed, we can gain a "flowering of truth instead of pain." Changing our perspectives and opening our minds can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves, others, and the world around us. It can bring about a shift towards greater wisdom, empathy, and a more profound connection with the fundamental truths of existence.

e. How are we benefited by new people?

New people bring numerous benefits into our lives. Through our connection and unity with them, we have the opportunity to soar to greater heights, embark on new ventures, and embrace fresh perspectives. The presence of new individuals enriches our lives, allowing us to experience happiness, harmony, integrity, knowledge, sincerity, discipline, and creativity. These attributes, bestowed upon us by new people, can be harnessed to foster the growth and prosperity of our nation.

f. Describe the rhyme scheme of this sonnet.

Reference to the context

a. What does the poet mean by ‘the awakening age’?

"The awakening age" in the poem refers to a period of enlightenment, progress, and positive transformation. It suggests a time when individuals and societies awaken to new ideas, perspectives, and possibilities. It signifies a collective awakening of consciousness, where people become more aware of social injustices, strive for equality, and work towards creating a better world. It implies a shift from ignorance to knowledge, from complacency to action, and from darkness to light. The "awakening age" represents a hopeful and optimistic vision of a time when humanity collectively embraces change and seeks to build a more enlightened and harmonious future.

b. Why, in your view, have these people ‘lived with poverty’s rage’?

The phrase "lived with poverty's rage" signifies the profound challenges and frustrations experienced by individuals trapped in poverty. It reflects the emotional and psychological toll poverty takes on their lives, including feelings of anger, frustration, and a sense of injustice. These individuals not only endure the hardships of limited resources and opportunities but also bear witness to the wider societal inequalities that perpetuate their disadvantaged circumstances. Despite these struggles, they exhibit remarkable resilience and determination, seeking to break free from poverty's grip and create a better future for themselves and their communities. Their experiences of poverty's rage fuel a drive for change and inspire efforts towards building a more equitable and just society.

It is important to note that the interpretation of "poverty's rage" may vary based on individual perspectives and experiences. Some readers may understand it as a collective anger and frustration directed towards the societal structures that perpetuate poverty and inequality. Others may view it as a personal internal struggle, an intense emotional response to the challenges and injustices faced in poverty.

c. Why does the poet appeal for solidarity among the people?

The poet appeals for solidarity among the people to harness collective power and bring about positive change. Solidarity recognizes that by standing together and supporting one another, individuals can amplify their voices and address social issues more effectively. It fosters a sense of shared responsibility and empathy, creating a community where everyone's well-being is valued. The appeal for solidarity is driven by the understanding that societal challenges require collaborative efforts. By uniting and working towards common goals, people can overcome divisions, break down barriers, and build a more inclusive and cohesive society. Solidarity empowers individuals to make a greater impact and create a world where collective progress is prioritized.

In summary, the poet's call for solidarity emphasizes the strength that arises from unity. It encourages people to support one another, address social issues, and promote empathy. By standing together, individuals can amplify their voices, tackle challenges more effectively, and build a more inclusive society. Solidarity is a catalyst for positive change, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and collective progress.

d. Does the poet present migration in a positive light? Why? Why not?

Based on the given excerpt, the poet does present migration in a positive light. The lines "O ye who travel the meridian line" and "May the vision of a new world within you shine" convey a sense of optimism and hope associated with migration. The poet encourages those who are embarking on a journey, presumably a migration, to carry a vision of a new world within themselves.

The poet's positive portrayal of migration may stem from the belief that migration offers opportunities for growth, exploration, and a fresh start. It suggests that moving to a new place can bring about a transformative experience, allowing individuals to escape from poverty, gain new perspectives, and contribute to the awakening of a better age.

e. Nepal is also known for its economic as well as educational migrants. Have you noticed any change in the perceptions and behaviours of these migrants when they return home from abroad?

Returning migrants from abroad often bring back valuable assets in the form of new skills, knowledge, and perspectives. Their exposure to different cultures, work environments, and educational systems can significantly influence their perceptions and behaviors. These experiences tend to broaden their horizons, enhance their understanding of global dynamics, and contribute to their personal and professional growth. The returning migrants may display changes in their attitudes towards work, entrepreneurship, education, and societal norms. They often become more open to innovation, develop a greater awareness of global trends, and exhibit heightened self-confidence and ambition. Moreover, their time abroad can foster a deeper appreciation for their homeland, leading to a desire to positively contribute to its development.

f. Relate the rhyme scheme of this sonnet to the kind of life idealized by the poet.

The rhyme scheme of this sonnet, which is AA BB CC DD EE FF GG, reflects a sense of order, symmetry, and harmony. Each stanza consists of a rhyming couplet, creating a balanced and structured form. This rhyme scheme mirrors the poet's idealized vision of life, emphasizing the interconnectedness and unity among people.

The consistent rhyme scheme reflects the poet's desire for a cohesive and harmonious society. Just as the rhyming couplets create a sense of completion and resolution within each stanza, the poet envisions a world where individuals are linked together in hope and solidarity. The repetition of the rhyme pattern reinforces the idea of a collective journey and shared aspirations.

Furthermore, the regularity of the rhyme scheme suggests a sense of stability and predictability, mirroring the poet's ideal of a stable and prosperous society. The ordered structure of the poem reflects the poet's belief in the power of unity and cooperation among people to achieve common goals and overcome challenges.

Overall, the rhyme scheme of this sonnet aligns with the kind of life idealized by the poet – a life characterized by unity, harmony, and a shared vision for a better future.

Reference beyond the text

Write an essay on 'The Impacts of Migration on Nepali Society'.

The Impacts of Migration on Nepali Society

Migration has become a significant phenomenon in Nepali society, with a considerable number of Nepali individuals seeking opportunities abroad. The impacts of migration on Nepali society are multifaceted, affecting various aspects of social, economic, and cultural life. This essay explores the impacts of migration on Nepali society and delves into both the positive and negative consequences of this migration trend.

One of the key impacts of migration on Nepali society is the economic aspect. Remittances sent by Nepali migrants working overseas play a crucial role in the country's economy. These remittances contribute to poverty reduction, improve living standards, and stimulate local businesses and investments. Families of migrants often experience an improvement in their financial stability, enabling them to access better education, healthcare, and overall quality of life.

However, the economic impact of migration is not without its challenges. The dependence on remittances can lead to economic vulnerabilities, as the country becomes heavily reliant on external sources of income. Moreover, the absence of skilled labor due to migration can create labor shortages in certain sectors, hindering economic growth and development. Additionally, the unequal distribution of remittances within households can lead to social disparities and gender imbalances, affecting family dynamics and societal structures.

Beyond the economic realm, migration also influences the social fabric of Nepali society. The departure of individuals, particularly the youth, can create a "brain drain" effect, where skilled and talented individuals leave the country in search of better opportunities. This brain drain can impact sectors such as healthcare, education, and research, depriving Nepal of valuable human capital.

However, migration can also have positive social impacts. Returning migrants often bring back new skills, knowledge, and experiences, contributing to the development of their communities and society at large. They can act as agents of change, introducing innovative ideas and practices in various sectors. Furthermore, migration can foster cultural exchange and diversity, enriching Nepali society with new perspectives, traditions, and values.

Culturally, migration has both positive and negative implications. On one hand, the exposure to different cultures and ideas can broaden the horizons of migrants, leading to a more cosmopolitan society. This cultural exchange can promote tolerance, understanding, and appreciation for diversity. On the other hand, migration can also challenge traditional norms and values, leading to social tensions and conflicts as societies navigate the integration of new ideas and practices.

In conclusion, the impacts of migration on Nepali society are diverse and complex. While migration brings economic benefits through remittances and contributes to social and cultural exchange, it also presents challenges such as brain drain and labor shortages. It is crucial for policymakers to address these challenges and create an enabling environment that maximizes the positive impacts of migration while mitigating its negative consequences. Through proper policies and support systems, migration can be harnessed as a catalyst for sustainable development, social cohesion, and inclusive growth in Nepali society.