Questions and Answers
What does 'burden of the ages' mean?
The colonial power ruling the country for a long time, forcing people to obey without allowing them to think for themselves, causing suffering.
What kind of freedom does the poet claim for his motherland?
Freedom from fear, illogical and orthodox beliefs, customs created by rulers, and freedom from bondage and slavery.
'Whole sails are weakly yielded to the blind uncertain winds' refers to:
The expressions 'bending your head' and 'breaking your back' refer to:
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Study Notes
Poet's Vision for Motherland
- The poet demands freedom for his motherland from fear, illogical and orthodox beliefs, and customs imposed by rulers, as well as freedom from bondage and slavery.
- This freedom will allow countrymen to think for themselves and make their own decisions.
Burden of the Ages
- The "burden of the ages" refers to the long-term rule of colonial powers over the country.
- During this time, people were forced to obey the rulers without questioning, leading to suffering for many years.
Metaphors of Oppression
- "Bending your head" and "breaking your back" are metaphors that describe the oppression suffered by the country at the hands of British rulers.
- These expressions symbolize the injustice and suffering inflicted upon the people.
Uncertain Direction
- The phrase "whole sails are weakly yielded to the blind uncertain winds" suggests a country moving with no sense of direction.
- This metaphor implies a lack of strong leadership and decision-making, resulting in the country drifting aimlessly.
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Description
A poet's demand for freedom from colonial rule, orthodox beliefs, and slavery, seeking autonomy for his countrymen to think and decide for themselves.
