He stole through my eyes and invaded my breast
simply by looking – who knows how he did it? –
Even though parents and husband and all
crowded the courtyard and filled my world.
The door was protected by all that was proper;
not a corner, nothing, was left without a guard.
Decency, prudence, respect for the family –
these three were locks and I hid the keys.
The sturdiest doors were my eyelid gates –
to enter through them was a passage impossible –
And secure in my heart, a mountainous treasure:
Insight, intelligence, fortitude, wit.
And then, says Sur, he had stolen it –
With a thought and a laugh and a look –
And my body was scorched with remorse.
Surdas (Source: Song of the Saints of India, Translated by J.S.Hawley and Mark Juergensmeyer.)
This poem by Surdas beautifully illustrates the power of
love and attraction, even in the face of societal norms and personal barriers.
The speaker describes how Gopal, a divine figure often associated with Lord
Krishna, has captivated her heart despite the obstacles in her way.
The imagery of Gopal "stealing" the speaker's
heart through his gaze highlights the irresistible nature of love. Despite the
presence of family members and societal expectations, Gopal's glance pierces
through the defenses the speaker has erected around herself. The reference to
"eyelid gates" emphasizes the intimacy of the intrusion, suggesting
that love can transcend physical barriers.
The speaker acknowledges her own strength and intelligence,
symbolized by the "mountainous treasure" within her heart. However,
Gopal's presence overwhelms her, leaving her feeling scorched with remorse.
This suggests a conflict between rationality and emotion, between the duties
imposed by society and the pull of personal desire.
Ultimately, the poem explores themes of love, longing, and the powerlessness of the individual in the face of overwhelming attraction. Surdas uses vivid imagery and emotional depth to convey the intensity of the speaker's feelings and the transformative nature of love.