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Beautiful is Thy Wristlet by Rabindranath Tagore (Poem & Summary)

 

Beautiful is Thy Wristlet

by Rabindranath Tagore

(Poem & Summary) 

This is the 53rd poem of Gitanjali by Rabindranath Tagore. In this captivating poem, the author marvels at the exquisite beauty found in two contrasting objects. The opening lines depict a wristlet adorned with celestial stars and intricately crafted jewels, radiating an enchanting allure. However, the poet's gaze is swiftly drawn to another object, a sword possessed by a divine figure. This sword possesses a captivating curvature resembling the outstretched wings of Vishnu's celestial bird, shimmering with a furious crimson glow in the waning light of sunset. It pulsates with the essence of life, the exhilarating response to pain at the brink of death. It blazes with an intense brilliance, consuming worldly perceptions in a single, fiery instant. The poet acknowledges the wristlet's beauty, but it pales in comparison to the awe-inspiring and dreadful magnificence of the thunderous lord's sword.

Beautiful is Thy Wristlet

Beautiful is thy wristlet, decked with stars and cunningly wrought in myriad-coloured jewels. But more beautiful to me thy sword with its curve of lightning like the outspread wings of the divine bird of Vishnu, perfectly poised in the angry red light of the sunset.

It quivers like the one last response of life in ecstasy of pain at the final stroke of death; it shines like the pure flame of being burning up earthly sense with one fierce flash.

Beautiful is thy wristlet, decked with starry gems; but thy sword, O lord of thunder, is wrought with uttermost beauty, terrible to behold or to think of.

Summary

In this poem, the idea of detachment is expressed. The poet believes that God has made a beautiful world, like a precious ornament. The world is captivating and attractive to humans. It shines brightly like a bracelet adorned with countless colorful jewels, made by God. However, the poet thinks that God's sword is even more beautiful than the bracelet. The sword of God is curved and shines like lightning. It resembles a bird with outstretched wings, perfectly balanced in the angry red light of the sunset. The poet believes that life on Earth is tempting and captivating, like a jewel that tries to hide the heavenly glory of God. But the sword, representing detachment, leads to the ultimate goal of the human soul: to connect with the hidden, mysterious will of God. Those who ignore the allure of earthly life and understand the spiritual significance of the sword can find their way from the endless ocean of time to God's heavenly home. The sword, with its harsh truth of spirituality, appears frightening compared to the beautiful and decorated bracelet of God. Similarly, the path to the eternal power is both terrifying and enlightening.

The poem explores two contrasting aspects of life: materialism and detachment. These ideas are effectively conveyed through the lovely images used in the poem. The poet describes the wristlet as beautiful, adorned with sparkling gems, but the sword is even more exquisitely crafted and awe-inspiring.

In essence, the poem uses striking images to convey the idea that while the world may be alluring and filled with material pleasures like a beautiful wristlet, true beauty lies in detachment, symbolized by the sword. The poet recognizes the importance of freeing oneself from worldly attachments and desires.

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Location: India

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