Thinking Activity : "Orlando: A Biography" by Virginia Woolf

Hello friends, I am writing this blog on "Orlando : A Biography" by Virginia Woolf and also trying to give answers to the following questions. 

Orlando" is a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating film directed by Sally Potter, released in 1992. It is a loose adaptation of Virginia Woolf's novel of the same name, and it tells the story of a young nobleman, Orlando. 

Orlando" is about a person who achieves in one lifetime what most of us can only dream of doing: viewing four centuries of experiences through the eyes of both sexes. Obviously it is a very long and unusual lifetime. Born as a man in the time of Elizabeth I, Orlando becomes a woman midway in the journey and is still going strong as the film ends.

"Orlando" is a British film released in 1992, directed and written by Sally Potter, based on the novel "Orlando: A Biography" by Virginia Woolf. The film follows the story of a young nobleman named Orlando who lives in Elizabethan England and goes through a series of magical transformations that take him from the 16th century to the 20th century.

The film begins with Orlando (played by Tilda Swinton) as a young man in the court of Queen Elizabeth I. He falls in love with Sasha (played by Charlotte Valandrey), a Russian princess who visits the court. After a brief romance, Sasha leaves and Orlando becomes despondent. It is at this point that he undergoes a strange transformation - he does not age and he changes gender, becoming a woman. The film then follows Orlando's life through the centuries, as he/she navigates through the changing times, relationships, and society.

As a woman, Orlando is able to experience the world in a different way, including discrimination and limitations that were previously unknown to him. She eventually falls in love with a man named Marmaduke Bonthrop Shelmerdine (played by Billy Zane) and they have a child together. However, after Orlando's son is born, she reverts back to being a man.

Throughout the film, Orlando's gender transformation is depicted as a surreal and magical experience. The film also touches on themes of gender identity, sexuality, and the role of women in society. The film's experimental nature is enhanced by its use of music and cinematography, as well as the presence of real historical figures, such as Queen Elizabeth I and poet Alexander Pope, who interact with Orlando throughout the centuries.

"Orlando" received critical acclaim for its unique approach to storytelling and exploration of gender identity. Tilda Swinton's performance as Orlando was widely praised and the film went on to win numerous awards, including the Grand Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival. The film has since become a cult classic and a landmark in queer cinema, inspiring many other filmmakers to explore similar themes.

∆ Difference and Similarities :

"Vita and Virginia" and "Orlando" are two films that both explore the life and relationships of the famous British author Virginia Woolf. However, there are several differences and similarities between these two films.

The main difference between the movies "Vita and Virginia" and "Orlando" is their storyline and focus.

"Vita and Virginia" is a biographical drama film that centers on the real-life relationship between the famous British author Virginia Woolf and her lover, fellow writer Vita Sackville-West. The film explores their complex romantic and creative partnership, as well as the challenges they faced in a society that was hostile to same-sex relationships.

On the other hand, "Orlando" is a period drama film based on Virginia Woolf's novel of the same name. The story follows the life of a young nobleman named Orlando who transforms into a woman and lives for centuries, experiencing various historical events and cultural changes along the way. The film explores themes of gender, identity, and the fluidity of human experience.

In summary, while both movies share a connection to Virginia Woolf and her literary legacy, "Vita and Virginia" focuses on a specific period in Woolf's life and her relationship with Sackville-West, while "Orlando" takes a more imaginative and allegorical approach to exploring Woolf's themes of gender and identity.

The main similarity between the movies "Vita and Virginia" and "Orlando" is their connection to the life and work of the famous British author Virginia Woolf.

Both films explore Woolf's literary legacy and her impact on modernist literature, as well as her personal life and relationships. They both also touch on themes of gender, sexuality, and identity, though they do so in different ways.

Additionally, both films feature strong performances from their lead actors. In "Vita and Virginia," Elizabeth Debicki and Gemma Arterton deliver powerful performances as Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West, respectively. Meanwhile, in "Orlando," Tilda Swinton gives a standout performance as the titular character, capturing the complex and ever-changing nature of Orlando's gender and identity.

Overall, while "Vita and Virginia" and "Orlando" have different storylines and approaches, they both share a deep connection to the life and work of Virginia Woolf, and explore similar themes related to gender, sexuality, and identity.

1)How far do you feel that Orlando is influenced by Vita and Virginia’s love affair? Does it talk only about that or do you find anything else too?

Orlando is heavily influenced by Vita and Virginia's love affair, as the character of Orlando is widely believed to be inspired by Vita Sackville-West, who was also a writer and a lover of Virginia Woolf. The novel explores themes of gender and sexuality, and it can be seen as a celebration of Vita and Virginia's unconventional relationship.

However, the novel is not solely focused on their love affair. It also delves into broader issues such as the passage of time, the nature of identity, and the role of literature in shaping our understanding of the world. Additionally, Woolf uses Orlando to comment on the history of English literature and its limitations in representing the experiences of women and marginalized groups.

Overall, while the influence of Vita and Virginia's relationship is undeniable, Orlando is a complex and multifaceted work that offers insights into a wide range of issues beyond their personal lives.

2)Who do you think is confused about their identity Vita or Virginia? Explain with illustrations.

Vita Sackville-West was a writer, poet, and gardener who lived from 1892 to 1962. She is known for her unconventional and sometimes controversial personal life, including her romantic relationships with both men and women. She had a close friendship and romantic relationship with Virginia Woolf, which inspired Woolf's novel "Orlando."

Virginia Woolf was a writer and feminist who lived from 1882 to 1941. She is known for her contributions to modernist literature, particularly her stream-of-consciousness writing style. She struggled with mental illness throughout her life and ultimately took her own life in 1941.

Neither Vita Sackville-West nor Virginia Woolf are known to have been confused about their identities in the sense of gender or sexual orientation. However, they both grappled with questions of identity and self-expression in their writing. For example, Woolf's novel "Orlando" explores themes of gender, identity, and the fluidity of both over time. Sackville-West's poetry often touches on themes of self-discovery and the search for meaning in life.

In conclusion, it would not be accurate to say that either Vita or Virginia were confused about their identity. However, they both explored questions of identity and self-expression in their writing and personal lives.

3)What is society’s thought about women and identity? Do you agree with them? If Yes then why? If not then why?

Society's thoughts about women and identity have evolved over time and vary across cultures and regions. However, historically, women have often been expected to conform to traditional gender roles and norms, which can limit their ability to fully express their individual identity.

In some cultures, women are expected to prioritize their roles as wives and mothers over their individual aspirations and identities. Women who deviate from these traditional roles may face social stigma, discrimination, or even violence. Moreover, women are often judged more harshly than men based on their appearance, behavior, and other aspects of their identity, which can contribute to a sense of insecurity or self-doubt.

It is important to recognize that every person has a unique identity. Women should be free to express themselves and pursue their individual goals without fear of judgment or discrimination.

4)What are your views on Gender Identity? Would you like to give any message to society?

Gender identity refers to a person's inner sense of their own gender, which may or may not correspond to the sex they were assigned at birth. Some people may identify as male, female, non-binary, or genderqueer, among other identities. Gender identity is distinct from biological sex, which refers to the physical and physiological differences between males and females.

It's essential to respect individuals' gender identity, whether or not it aligns with societal norms or expectations. People should have the freedom to express their gender identity and live as their authentic selves without fear of discrimination, harassment, or violence. Education, awareness, and understanding can go a long way in promoting acceptance and inclusivity for people of all gender identities.

Society that every individual has the right to dignity, respect, and equality regardless of their gender identity. We should strive to create a society that values diversity and promotes inclusion for all individuals, regardless of their differences.

5)Write a note on the direction of the movie. Which symbols and space caught your attention while watching the movie?

Orlando" is a 1992 British film directed by Sally Potter, based on the novel of the same name by Virginia Woolf. The film follows the life of a young nobleman named Orlando and changes gender from male to female halfway through the story.

Sally Potter's direction in "Orlando" is characterized by its strong visual style and attention to detail. The film's cinematography is particularly noteworthy and the film's themes of transformation, identity, and the passing of time. Potter's direction also makes effective use of music. One of the most striking aspects of Potter's direction in "Orlando" is the way in which she handles the film's portrayal of Orlando's transformation from male to female. 

Potter's direction in "Orlando" is both bold and subtle, creating a rich and immersive cinematic experience that invites viewers to contemplate the complexities of gender, identity, and human experience.

Another notable aspect of the direction is the use of locations and sets to convey the historical context of the story. 

Symbolism is also an important element of the film's direction. For example, the repeated motif of water and the changing weather patterns are used to signify the passage of time and the transformation of Orlando's gender. 

The use of mirrors is also significant, reflecting Orlando's changing appearance and his struggle to understand his own identity.

The use of space in the film is also notable. The grand halls and gardens of Orlando's estate serve to highlight his/her privileged position. The use of space also serves to create a sense of time and place, with different historical eras reflected in the architecture and landscapes of the settings.

In conclusion, the symbols and space in "Orlando" serve to create a rich and complex visual language, exploring themes of gender, identity, and the passage of time. 

6)"Vita and Virginia" had to be made into a Bollywood Adaptation. Who do you think would be fit for the role of Vita and Virginia? 

For the role of Vita Sackville-West, an English socialite, author, and gardener, an actress who could be a good fit is Sonam Kapoor. She has a flair for fashion and style that could reflect Vita's personality.

For the role of Virginia Woolf, an actress who could be considered is Swara Bhaskar. 

Thank you...

Word Count : 1955

Images : 7

"Breath" by Samuel Beckett

Hello friends here I am writing this blog on interpretation of Samuel Beckett's play 'Breath'. 

Click here to watch the video on 'Breath' by Samuel Beckett

"Breath" is a short play by Samuel Beckett that explores the themes of life, death, and the human condition. The play consists of a single stage direction that describes a person who takes their final breath and then a 30-second pause before the stage lights fade to black. This minimalistic play is often interpreted as a reflection on the fleeting nature of human life and the inevitability of death.

Damien Hirst's version of "Breath" is a visual art installation that uses a similar minimalist approach to explore the same themes as the original play. Hirst's version features a white hospital bed with white sheets, a white pillow, and a white life-support machine. The machine periodically inflates and deflates a transparent plastic bag that appears to contain a human lung.

Hirst's installation invites viewers to contemplate the fragility of life and the inevitability of death. The transparent plastic bag containing the lung serves as a metaphor for the fleeting nature of human existence, while the white hospital bed and sheets suggest the clinical and impersonal nature of modern medicine. The rhythmic inflation and deflation of the bag also evoke the idea of breathing and the basic, biological process that sustains life.

"Breath" is a short play by Samuel Beckett that explores themes of existence and nothingness through a minimalistic and experimental style. In Damien Hirst's version of the play, there is a reference to Nazism and Hitler, which adds a new layer of meaning and interpretation to the work.

At its core, "Breath" is a meditation on the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death. The play opens with the sound of a baby crying, which symbolizes the beginning of life. This is followed by a long pause, during which nothing happens, and then the sound of an inhalation, which suggests the act of breathing and the continuation of life. The play then ends with the sound of an exhalation, which signifies the end of life and the release of breath.

"Breath" is a short, minimalist piece that was first performed in 1969. It consists of only 30 seconds of stage time and no characters or dialogue. Instead, it focuses on a series of actions and sounds.

In conclusion, both the original play by Samuel Beckett and Damien Hirst's version of "Breath" use minimalistic elements to explore profound philosophical themes related to life, death, and the human condition.

Thank you...

'Mohandas Karamchand' by Meena Kandasamy

Hello friends, here I am writing this blog on analysis of the poem 'Mohandas Karamchand' written by Meena Kandasamy and then I will try to find the problematic word which is used in this poem.

∆ Poem : 

Who? Who? Who?

Mahatma. Sorry no.

Truth. Non-violence.

Stop it. Enough taboo.

The poem "Mohandas Karamchand" by Meena Kandasamy is a critical reevaluation of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, also known as Mahatma Gandhi, who is often referred to as the father of the Indian nation. The poem is a critique of the Indian political system and the way in which it has failed to address the issues faced by its citizens. 

The lines "Who? Who? Who? Mahatma. Sorry no. Truth. Non-violence. Stop it. Enough taboo." appear to be a critique of the uncritical veneration of Gandhi and the need to reassess his legacy in light of his flaws and limitations.

The repetition of "Who? Who? Who?" suggests a questioning of Gandhi's status as a revered figure. The line "Mahatma. Sorry no." seems to reject the notion that Gandhi was a saintly or infallible figure, and instead focuses on the importance of "truth" and "non-violence" as principles.

The final line suggests a call to move beyond the taboo and reverence that has historically surrounded Gandhi and to critically examine his ideas and actions. 

That trash is long overdue.

You need a thorough review.

Your tax-free salt stimulated our wounds

We gonna sue you, the Congress shoe.

In the second stanza"that trash is long overdue" could be interpreted as referring to some kind of wrongdoing or neglect that has been going on for a long time and needs to be addressed. 

The phrase "your tax-free salt stimulated our wounds" could be interpreted as a reference to the idea that the actions of the person or group have caused harm to the speaker or others and that they have not paid the necessary taxes to help alleviate this harm.

The phrase "we gonna sue you, the Congress shoe" is a play on words, with "Congress shoe" sounding similar to "concierge" and referring to a person who serves as a representative or mediator. 

Gone half-cuckoo, you called us names,

You dubbed us pariahs—“Harijans”

goody-goody guys of a bigot god

Ram Ram Hey Ram—boo.

The first line, "Gone half-cuckoo, you called us names," refers to Gandhi's state of mind during his later years when he became increasingly eccentric and controversial. 

The second line, "You dubbed us pariahs—'Harijans'," refers to Gandhi's use of the term "Harijan," which means "children of God," to refer to the Dalits, who were considered to be untouchables in the Indian caste system. While Gandhi's use of this term was meant to be a way of empowering the Dalits, Kandasamy argues that it was ultimately patronizing and did little to change their actual social status.

The third line, "goody-goody guys of a bigot god," refers to Gandhi's religious beliefs and his advocacy of non-violence. 

The fourth line, "Ram Ram Hey Ram—boo," refers to the chant "Ram Ram Hey Ram" that Gandhi was known to use during his prayer meetings. Kandasamy uses this line to suggest that Gandhi's religiosity was not just a personal belief but also a political strategy that he used to gain influence and power.

Don’t ever act like a holy saint.

we can see through you, impure you.

Remember, how you dealt with your poor wife.

But, they wrote your books, they made your life.

The first line, "Don't ever act like a holy saint," is a challenge to Gandhi's public persona as a saintly figure who embodied the principles of truth and non-violence. Kandasamy argues that Gandhi was not as pure or righteous as he appeared to be, and that his actions were motivated by personal gain and power. Kandasamy is highlighting Gandhi's hypocrisy in advocating for social justice and equality while mistreating the women in his own life. 

Kandasamy is suggesting that the image of Gandhi as a saintly figure has been created by those who wrote about him and that this image does not reflect the reality of his life.

They stuffed you up, the imposter true.

And sew you up—filled you with virtue

and gave you all that glossy deeds

enough reason we still lick you.

Kandasamy argues that this image is a fabrication, and that Gandhi is not the hero he is often made out to be. Kandasamy is suggesting that Gandhi's followers and biographers have created an image of him as a perfect, virtuous figure by selectively highlighting his positive qualities and ignoring his flaws.

Kandasamy argues that Gandhi's reputation is built on his deeds and actions, which have been selectively highlighted and presented in a positive light. Kandasamy is suggesting that despite the flaws in his character and the questionable aspects of his legacy, Gandhi is still revered and idolized in India. 

You knew, you bloody well knew,

Caste won’t go, they wouldn’t let it go.

It haunts us now, the way you do

with a spooky stick, a eerie laugh or two.

These lines convey a sense of frustration and despair at the persistence of caste discrimination in India. Despite the efforts of social reformers and activists, the caste system continues to haunt and oppress those who are marginalized by it.

But they killed you, the naked you,

your blood with mud was gooey goo.

Sadist fool, you killed your body

many times before this too.

Bapu, bapu, you big fraud, we hate you.

The phrase "Sadist fool, you killed your body many times before this too" suggests that Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence was self-destructive and ultimately led to his demise. The final line, "Bapu, bapu, you big fraud, we hate you," is particularly provocative, as it directly addresses Gandhi and accuses him of being a fraud. The use of the word "bapu" (father), which was a term of endearment for Gandhi, adds to the sense of betrayal and disillusionment expressed in these lines.

∆ Problematization of the poem :

→ Here in the first stanza truth and non-violence are called enough taboo but we know that Gandhi believed in truth and non-violence.

→ 'Harijan' means 'childrens of God' but here we can see that Gandhi called them 'Harijan' which means 'Dalit'. So, here we can see caste based discrimination.

→ Here in the fourth stanza we can say that the saint is holy but here he is shown as impure.

→ Usually the word 'lick' is used for animals like dogs, cow but here we see that the word 'lick' is used for people.

Thank you...

Thinking Activity : Northrop Frye

Hello friends, here I am writing this blog on Archetypal Criticism by Northrop Frye and here I have tried to answer the following questions with the help of ChatGpt ( Artificial intelligence).

1)What is Archetypal Criticism ? 

→ Archetypal criticism is a type of literary criticism that emphasizes the recurring patterns, symbols, and images (i.e., archetypes) that exist across various works of literature, mythology, and culture.

The approach is based on the ideas of Swiss psychologist Carl Jung, who believed that certain universal symbols and patterns are present in the human collective unconscious and can be found in myths, dreams, and literature from different cultures and time periods.

Archetypal criticism seeks to identify and analyze these archetypes in literature and explore their deeper meanings and cultural significance. Archetypes may include characters, situations, symbols, or themes that appear frequently across various works and have symbolic or psychological significance, such as the hero, the villain, the trickster, the mother, the quest, or the journey.

Archetypal criticism can provide insights into the cultural and psychological forces that shape literary works, as well as the human condition more broadly. It can also offer a way to connect different works across time and cultures, and explore their shared themes and motifs.

2)What is contribution of Northrop Frye in Archetypal Criticism ?

→ Northrop Frye was one of the most influential literary critics of the 20th century and made significant contributions to the field of Archetypal Criticism. Frye's approach to Archetypal Criticism was based on the concept of the "mythical universe," which he defined as the set of universal themes, symbols, and images that recur throughout literature, art, and culture.

Frye's most important contribution to Archetypal Criticism was his concept of the "anatomy of criticism," which is a structural framework for literary analysis based on the four levels of literary meaning: the literal, the formal, the mythical, and the anagogic. Frye argued that the mythical level was the most important for understanding the archetypal patterns that recur in literature.

Frye also identified and classified archetypes, which are recurring patterns or motifs that have symbolic significance across different cultures and time periods. He divided these archetypes into four main categories: the mythos (the hero's journey), the dianoia (the symbolic structure of thought), the ethos (the social and cultural values), and the pathos (the emotional and psychological aspects of human experience).

Frye's work in Archetypal Criticism influenced many literary critics and scholars and has been particularly influential in the study of poetry and drama. His ideas continue to be debated and explored in contemporary literary theory and criticism.

3)What do Archetypal Critics do ? Explain with examples.

→ Archetypal criticism is a literary criticism approach that focuses on the use of archetypes or universal symbols in literature, such as the hero, the villain, the mentor, the trickster, and the mother. Archetypal critics analyze how these symbols are used in a work of literature to convey deeper meanings and universal human experiences.

Archetypal critics examine the patterns and symbols that appear in a work of literature, and interpret them in relation to myths, fairy tales, and other cultural narratives. They look for commonalities and connections between different works of literature and analyze how these archetypes are used to express fundamental human experiences.

For example, in William Golding's "Lord of the Flies," the character of Ralph can be seen as an archetypal hero figure. He is the leader of the boys stranded on the island, and he embodies qualities such as courage, strength, and a sense of justice. Similarly, the character of Jack can be seen as an archetypal villain figure. He is the leader of the boys who become increasingly savage and violent, and he embodies qualities such as cruelty, selfishness, and a desire for power.

In J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," the character of Frodo can be seen as an archetypal hero figure. He is the reluctant hero who must carry the burden of the Ring, and he embodies qualities such as courage, selflessness, and a sense of duty. Similarly, the character of Gollum can be seen as an archetypal trickster figure. He is a devious character who is both helpful and harmful to Frodo, and he embodies qualities such as cunning, deceitfulness, and unpredictability.

Overall, archetypal critics use these symbols to identify deeper meanings and themes in literature, and to explore the ways in which literature reflects and informs our understanding of the human experience.

4)"Every organized body of knowledge can be learned progressively; and experience shows that there is also something progressive about the learning of literature. Our opening sentence has already got us into a semantic difficulty." Explain the semantic difficulty.

→ The semantic difficulty in the opening sentence is related to the word "progressive." The author uses the term in two different senses, which can cause confusion for the reader.

In the first sentence, the word "progressive" is used to suggest that every organized body of knowledge can be learned in a step-by-step manner, with each stage building on the previous one. This sense of the word is commonly used in educational contexts, where students are expected to make progress over time.

However, in the second part of the sentence, the author also refers to "something progressive about the learning of literature." In this case, the word "progressive" is being used in a more ambiguous sense, possibly suggesting that the learning of literature is not simply a matter of accumulating knowledge, but involves a more nuanced and ongoing engagement with the subject matter.

Therefore, the semantic difficulty arises because the same word is being used in two different senses, which can make it unclear whether the author is suggesting that the learning of literature is similar to the learning of other subjects in a step-by-step manner or if it is different in some way.

5)As above - "The relation of criticism to religion, when they deal with the same documents, is more complicated. In criticism, as in history, the divine is always treated as a human artifact. God for the critic, whether he finds him in Paradise Lost or the Bible, is a character in a human story".

→ This statement suggests that the relationship between criticism and religion is complex, particularly when both deal with the same texts. In criticism and history, the divine is seen as a product of human culture and creativity, rather than an objective reality. Therefore, even when critics encounter God in literary or religious texts, they approach God as a character within a human narrative rather than as an independent, divine entity.

This view reflects the approach of many scholars who study religious texts from a critical perspective. They analyze the cultural and historical context in which these texts were produced, as well as the literary and rhetorical strategies used to convey their messages. By doing so, they seek to understand how religious ideas and beliefs have been shaped and transformed by human creativity and interpretation over time.

At the same time, this perspective can be controversial among religious believers who view their texts as expressions of divine truth. For such believers, the idea that God is a human artifact may be seen as a denial of the reality of God's existence and influence in the world. Nonetheless, the idea that religious texts reflect human culture and creativity is widely accepted within the academic study of religion and can shed light on the complex relationship between religion and human culture.

Thank you…

→ Word Count : 1216

Thinking Activity : Waiting for Godot

Hello friends, I am writing this blog on Samuel Beckett's play 'Waiting for Godot' and here, I am trying to answer some questions about this play.

1)Why does Beckett grow a few leaves in Act 2 on the barren tree - the tree has four or five leaves ?

In Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot, Vladimir and Estragon wait on a barren road decorated by only a tree. The tree, as a symbol of change and death, reveals the difference between Vlad and Estragon as well as the unifying end of death. In Act II, Vladimir notices the tree’s new four or five leaves where before it was barren and concluded dead. 

2) Can we do any political reading of the play if we see European nations represented by the 'names' of the characters (Vladimir- Russia; Estragon - France; Pozzo - Italy and Lucky-England)? What interpretation can be inferred from the play written just after World War II? Which country stands for 'Godot'?

While Samuel Beckett himself did not explicitly state that the characters in "Waiting for Godot" represented specific countries, it is possible to interpret the play through a political lens, as the play was written just after World War II. If we interpret the characters in the play as representing European nations, we could see Vladimir as Russia, Estragon as France, Pozzo as Italy, and Lucky as England. 

As for which country stands for Godot, we can say that Godot represents Germany. Some readers and viewers have speculated that Godot may represent a higher power or authority figure, while others see Godot as a symbol for hope or salvation that never arrives.

3)In Act I, in reply to Boy's question:

"BOY: What am I to tell Mr. Godot, Sir?

VLADIMIR: Tell him... (he hesitates)... tell him you saw us. (Pause.) You did see us, didn't you?

How does this conversation go in Act II? What is the significance?

In Act II, the conversation between Vladimir and the Boy regarding their meeting with Mr. Godot is repeated almost verbatim from Act I. This repetition emphasizes the circular and repetitive nature of the characters' lives and their waiting for Godot. It also highlights the idea that nothing much has changed in the interim period between the two acts, indicating that the characters are trapped in a cycle of waiting and uncertainty.

The significance of the conversation lies in the fact that it underscores the theme of the characters' inability to take action or make meaningful decisions. Vladimir's hesitation in telling the Boy what to say to Mr. Godot suggests a lack of agency and control over their situation. The fact that the Boy repeats the same question and the same answer as in Act I reinforces this notion of inaction and circularity.

Furthermore, the question "You did see us, didn't you?" reflects the characters' fear of being forgotten or overlooked, which is a recurring theme in the play. This fear of insignificance and being forgotten is also reflected in the character's continual questioning of their own existence and the existence of Godot.

4)In both Acts, evening falls into night and moon rises. How would you interpret this 'coming of night and moon' when actually they are waiting for Godot?

The "coming of night and moon" in both Acts of Samuel Beckett's play "Waiting for Godot" can be interpreted in a few ways.

First, it could represent the passing of time and the cyclical nature of life. Just as day turns to night and back to day again, the characters are stuck in an endless cycle of waiting for Godot, who may or may not ever come.

Second, the darkness of night and the moon's presence could be seen as a symbol of hopelessness and despair. The characters have been waiting for an unknown amount of time and have no indication that Godot will ever arrive. The darkness and the moon could be seen as a reflection of the characters' bleak and uncertain future.

Overall, the "coming of night and moon" in "Waiting for Godot" can be interpreted in various ways, depending on how the reader or audience member chooses to view the play.

5)What is the meaning of the terms 'Apathia, Aphasia and Athambia' in Lucky's speech? "... divine apathia divine athambia divine aphasia loves us dearly with some exceptions for reasons unknown…"

In Samuel Beckett's play "Waiting for Godot," the words "aphasia," "apathia," and "athambia" are used by the character Lucky in his famous monologue. "Aphasia" could be interpreted as a loss or impairment of speech, "Apathia" could be interpreted as a lack of interest and "Athambia" could be interpreted as an impartibility and also reflect the character's general sense of confusion and helplessness.

6)'A better solution to the tramp's predicament than to wait is, suicide". Is it really so? Why they fail to commit suicide?

In Samuel Beckett's play "Waiting for Godot," the characters Vladimir and Estragon are tramps who are waiting for someone named Godot to arrive. In fact, throughout the play, Vladimir and Estragon struggle to find a way to pass the time and alleviate their boredom and hopelessness. They consider various activities and distractions, such as hanging themselves, but ultimately they decide against it. They continue to wait for Godot, despite not knowing who he is or whether he will ever come. 

7)Explain: "Godot might become an image of what Sartre calls "Bad Faith".

In the play "Waiting for Godot" by Samuel Beckett, the character Godot is a mysterious figure who never appears, but who the main characters, Vladimir and Estragon, wait for throughout the play. The characters believe it will save them from their existential despair, but that never actually arrives. 

Overall, the idea is that Godot, as a symbol or representation of something that is hoped for but never arrives, can be interpreted as a manifestation of bad faith, a state of self-deception where individuals deny their own agency and responsibility for their lives.

8)Explain:"One hardly feels the absurdity of some things, on the one hand, and the necessity of those other things, on the other, (for it is rare that feeling of absurdity is not followed by the feeling of necessity), when one feels the absurdity of those things of which one had just felt the necessity (for it is rare that the feeling of necessity is not followed by the feeling of absurdity)"

This quote is suggesting that sometimes we don't realize how absurd something is until we've already felt the necessity for it, and vice versa. The author is acknowledging that these two feelings, absurdity and necessity, are often intertwined.

The first part of the quote is saying that when we experience something that seems absurd, we may not fully grasp the necessity of it. The second part of the quote is saying that the opposite can also be true. Sometimes, we may feel that something is necessary and only later realize how absurd it is. For example, we might feel like we need to keep up with the latest fashion trends, but later realize how absurd it is to spend so much money on clothes that will quickly go out of style.

Overall, the quote is highlighting the complex relationship between our feelings of absurdity and necessity, and how they can sometimes shift and influence each other.

Thank you…

•Word Count : 1226

Thinking Activity : War Poetry

Hello friends here I am writing this blog on War Poetry and here I try to compare this bollywood movie "Border" to these War Poems.

Bollywood movie "Border," released in 1997, is a war film directed by J.P. Dutta. The movie is based on the real-life events that occurred during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, specifically the Battle of Longewala. The movie boasts a star-studded cast, including Sunny Deol, Suniel Shetty, Akshaye Khanna, and Jackie Shroff, among others. It was a massive box office success, and the film's storyline, music, and performances were widely appreciated. In this analysis, we will take a closer look at the movie and explore why it is still considered one of the best war movies made in India.

∆ Plot :

The film tells the story of a group of Indian soldiers who are stationed at the Longewala post, near the India-Pakistan border. The movie is set in 1971 when the Indian army is expecting an attack from Pakistan. Major Kuldeep Singh (Sunny Deol) is the commanding officer of the post, and he has to lead his soldiers into battle against a much larger and well-equipped Pakistani army.

The movie begins with an introduction to the main characters, their backgrounds, and their relationships. The initial scenes set the tone of the movie, and it becomes evident that the movie is going to be a war movie, with a lot of action and drama.

Border tells the story of a group of Indian soldiers who are posted at the border between India and Pakistan during the Indo-Pak war of 1971. The soldiers are from different parts of India and come from different backgrounds, but they are united in their love for their country. The story focuses on the soldiers' struggle to defend their country against the enemy.

As the movie progresses, tensions mount, and the Indian army receives intelligence that the Pakistani army is going to attack them. Major Kuldeep Singh and his soldiers are left with limited resources and have to fight against a much larger enemy. The film shows how the soldiers use their wit and bravery to defend their post against the Pakistani army.

The story then moves on to the build-up to the war, with tension escalating between India and Pakistan. The soldiers are shown preparing for the war, and the audience is introduced to their personal lives and relationships. The soldiers are also shown bonding with each other and developing a deep sense of camaraderie.

The movie's climax is the battle scene, which is intense, emotional, and action-packed. The Indian soldiers are outnumbered, and the Pakistani army has far superior weapons, including tanks and aircraft. However, the Indian soldiers, led by Major Kuldeep Singh, use their tactical skills and bravery to outsmart the enemy and emerge victorious.

∆ Analysis :

"Bollywood movie Border" is a movie that showcases patriotism, bravery, and courage. The film's narrative is simple and easy to follow, which makes it a movie that can be enjoyed by a wide range of audiences. The movie's primary theme is to highlight the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers for their country. The film depicts the soldier's bravery, unity, and determination to protect their homeland.

The film is a visual masterpiece, and the battle scenes are exceptionally well executed. The battle scenes are intense, action-packed, and realistically choreographed. The movie is a visual treat, and the audience is taken on a journey where they can see the soldier's struggles and the physical and emotional toll that war takes on them.

One of the most significant strengths of the movie is its cast. Each character is well-defined, and the actors bring their best to the table. Sunny Deol's performance as Major Kuldeep Singh is outstanding. He portrays the character with conviction and brings a sense of gravitas to the role. Suniel Shetty, who plays the character of Bhairon Singh, is also excellent. He brings a sense of humor to the movie, which provides a much-needed relief in the otherwise intense storyline.

The movie Border deals with several themes, including patriotism, brotherhood, sacrifice, and the futility of war. The movie is a tribute to the brave soldiers who fought for their country during the Indo-Pak war of 1971. 

Patriotism is a dominant theme in the movie, with the soldiers shown as proud and dedicated Indians who are willing to lay down their lives for their country. The movie also emphasizes the importance of brotherhood and camaraderie, with the soldiers shown as a close-knit group who are willing to support and protect each other.

∆ Main Characters :

The characters in Border are well-developed and serve to represent different aspects of Indian society. The main characters are Major Kuldeep Singh, Captain Bhairon Singh, Lt. Dharamvir.

     • Sunny Deol (Major Kuldeep Singh)

Major Kuldeep Singh is a brave and patriotic soldier who is determined to defend his country at all costs. He is shown as a tough and no-nonsense soldier who leads from the front. Sunny Deol does a great job in portraying the character's strength and determination.

     • Suniel Shetty (Bhairon Singh)

Captain Bhairon Singh is the comic relief in the movie. He is shown as a jolly and carefree soldier who is always cracking jokes and making the others laugh. Sunil Shetty delivers a memorable performance as the lovable and affable character.

     • Akshay Khanna ( Dharamvir)

Dharamvir is the youngest member of the group and is shown as a naive and innocent soldier who is eager to serve his country. Akshaye Khanna gives a brilliant performance as the innocent and idealistic soldier who is forced to face the harsh realities of war.

The movie's music, composed by Anu Malik, is another highlight. The songs are soulful, emotional, and reflect the movie's themes. The music is well-placed and adds to the movie's overall emotional impact.

One of the songs from this album 'Sandeshey aate hai...' is very melodious. It is a must watch.

Click here to watch the video on this song 'Sandeshey Aate Hai...'

Thank you...

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• Images : 6