Author: G N Das
Translator(s)/ Edito: Gananath Das
Publisher: Writers Workshop
Year: 1994
Language: English
Pages: 143
ISBN/UPC (if available): 817189688X
Description
The essays in the present volume are the result of Mr. Das’s in-depth study of Kabir’s thoughts on some vital aspects of human life and behaviour, on man and his relation with God and his fellowmen. Here are also the author’s reflection on and interpretation of Kabir’s philosophy.
To translate from one Indian language to another is not so difficult as most Indian languages have their common origin in Sanskrit and share a common heritage. But for a foreign language like English which has its own culture and tradition, myths and beliefs and idioms and usage, to find the exact correspondence in words and their nuances is not an easy task. Any attempt to translate into it from an Indian language is, therefore, beset with great difficulties unless the translator is thoroughly at home in both the languages. Moreover, poetry translated into a foreign language often loses its élan. A great poem loses its poignancy and subtlety, even irony and humour in translation and, more often than not, fail to create the same impact on foreign minds as it has done in its native milieu. No translation can ever be a perfect mirror of the original. This aspect should be kept in mind while reading Mr. Das’s translation of Kabir’s dohas, padas and poems into English. He has tired to keep as close to the original form and meaning as possible in English.
Contents
Introduction
Author’s Preface
Mind
Forgiveness
Sorrow
Benevolence
Attachment
Ritualism
Paropkar or Assistance
Self-Surrender
Preceptor
Anger
Crookedness
Pride
Satsang or Association
Greed
Begging
Words of Mouth
Caste and Clan
Death
Deeds and Their Outcome
Devotion
Lust
Love
God Almighty