Summary of the Poem Sita

 

“Sita” appears in Toru Dutt’s Ancient Ballads and Legends of Hindustan. Though the title suggests that the poem is about goddess Sita actually it is based on the reaction of three children after listening to the story of the second exile of Sita.

The poem starts as three happy children (the poet, her sister and brother) are eagerly waiting to hear a story from their mother. They are sitting in a dark room. The story begins with a description of natural beauty. The mother tells the children about a dense forest. The forest is so thick that even the rays of sunlight cannot enter into it. In the centre place of the forest, there is a clear spot where very large flowers are blooming on creepers that embrace tall trees. Apart from these, there is a beautiful lake which has clean and clear water and is quiet. The white swans swim here making the sound of wings moving quickly from an area full of bushes. The peacocks also dance with joy. There are even herds of wild deer racing among them. The patches are shining bright because of the yellow grains which are waving. The blue smoke of the strange altar is spreading light to the forest.

In this forest, the great poet Valmiki lives in peace. In the hut of that great sage, a beautiful lady is also living. The lady is weeping; perhaps there is a great cause of her shading tears. The three children also begin to shed tears. It is an old story, very ancient, a short narrative poem on the sad incidents of Sita’s life. Dutt says the impact of the story is going to stay with them until the next morning. In the end, she asks about when those children sat around their mother to listen to the story. In reply, she clarifies that this is an autobiographical poem and those children are none other than the poet herself and her siblings Aru and Abju.

Characteristics of American Literature

            American literature is a diverse and dynamic body of literary works that reflects the cultural, historical, and social experiences of the United States. It encompasses many themes, styles, and genres, representing the complexities and contradictions of American society and the human condition. Some key aspects that describe American literature are:    

Cultural Diversity: American literature embraces the diverse voices and experiences of various ethnicities, races, and cultural backgrounds. It explores the struggles, triumphs, and contributions of different communities, including Native Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, and immigrants worldwide.

Individualism and the American Dream: Themes of individualism, personal freedom, and the pursuit of the American Dream are recurrent in American literature. Many works explore the idea that hard work, determination, and opportunity can lead to success and upward mobility.

Regionalism: American literature often captures the distinct characteristics and cultures of different regions within the United States. Writers draw inspiration from specific areas' landscapes, dialects, and traditions, highlighting the country's diverse geography and local identities.

Social Criticism and Realism: American literature frequently engages in social criticism, exposing social injustices and addressing societal issues. Realism is a prevalent literary style that seeks to present an accurate portrayal of everyday life and human experiences.

Historical Context: American literature reflects the historical events and periods that have shaped the nation, including the Colonial era, the American Revolution, the Civil War, the Great Depression, and the Civil Rights Movement. These historical contexts often influence the themes and messages conveyed in literary works.

Exploration of Identity: American literature grapples with questions of identity, including national, racial, gender, and cultural identity. It delves into the complexities of self-discovery and the search for meaning.

Innovation and Experimentation: American literature is known for its innovative spirit and willingness to experiment with new forms, styles, and themes. Writers have pushed the boundaries of traditional storytelling and literary conventions.

Representation of Human Struggles and Triumphs: American literature explores the human experience, portraying characters facing personal challenges, moral dilemmas, and moments of resilience and transformation.

Literary Movements: American literature has been shaped by various literary movements, including Romanticism, Transcendentalism, Realism, Modernism, the Harlem Renaissance, and Postmodernism, among others.

Global Impact: American literature has had a significant global influence, with many American authors becoming internationally renowned and their works translated into multiple languages.

Overall, American literature reflects the nation's complex history, values, ideals, and societal changes, making it a rich and meaningful body of work that continues to inspire, provoke thought, and resonate with readers worldwide.