My mother at sixty-six / kamala Das / CBSE Class- XII / English

 

My mother at sixty-six (CBSE CLASS -XII)

(Kamala Das)

"My Mother at Sixty-six" is a poignant poem by the renowned Indian poet Kamala Das (also known as Kamala Surayya). It captures the emotion and vulnerability of a daughter witnessing her aging mother's fragility during a journey.

Here's the poem:

Driving from my parent's

home to Cochin last Friday

morning, I saw my mother,

beside me,

doze, open mouthed, her face

ashen like that

of a corpse and realized with

pain

that she was as old as she

looked but soon

put that thought away, and

looked out at

young trees sprinting, the

cattle on their way

to graze, the fields all

muddled up

with young green crops, and

felt that old

childhood sinking and all

my tall self

dissolve in pity for that

immense loneliness

of her's, thinking of her

had been the

one comfort of my difficult

years, and now,

well, if anything happened

to her? As

at the time of my father's

death, once

again, the right to mourn

was mine.

This poem delicately explores the complex emotions of love, aging, and mortality. Kamala Das brings out the universal experience of witnessing a parent age and the sense of helplessness and compassion it evokes in us.

 

Summary of this poem

"My Mother at Sixty-six" by Kamala Das is a reflective poem that recounts the poet's emotional journey while driving with her elderly mother. As they travel, the poet observes her mother dozing beside her, her face appearing aged and fragile. The poet momentarily confronts the harsh reality of her mother's aging but quickly pushes the thought aside, focusing instead on the passing scenery. However, the sight of her mother's vulnerability prompts the poet to feel a deep sense of pity and empathy. She reminisces about the comfort her mother provided during difficult times and contemplates the loneliness her mother must feel in her old age. The poem concludes with the poet contemplating the possibility of her mother's mortality and acknowledges her own right to mourn if anything were to happen to her mother, reminiscent of the mourning period after her father's death. Overall, the poem captures the bittersweet emotions of love, compassion, and the inevitability of aging and loss.

 

Central idea of this poem

The central idea of "My Mother at Sixty-six" revolves around the themes of aging, mortality, and the complex emotions that arise when witnessing a loved one grow old. Kamala Das portrays the tender relationship between a daughter and her elderly mother, highlighting the daughter's realization of her mother's fragility and the inevitability of her aging process. The poem delves into the universal experience of confronting the mortality of our parents and the emotional impact it has on us. It also explores the themes of empathy, compassion, and the profound sense of loss that accompanies the aging of a beloved family member. Overall, the poem captures the poignant essence of the human experience, where love and vulnerability intertwine in the face of aging and eventual separation.

 

Message conveyed by the poet through this poem

Through "My Mother at Sixty-six," Kamala Das conveys a poignant message about the passage of time, the inevitability of aging, and the emotional complexities of the parent-child relationship. The poem reflects on the universal experience of witnessing a loved one, particularly a parent, grow old and frail, prompting a mixture of emotions including empathy, compassion, and a sense of loss.

One key message conveyed by the poet is the importance of cherishing and appreciating our loved ones, especially as they age. The poem serves as a reminder to value the time spent with our parents and to empathize with their vulnerability and loneliness as they navigate old age.

Additionally, the poem highlights the transient nature of life and the inevitability of mortality. It encourages readers to confront the reality of aging and to reflect on the emotional impact it has on both the aging individual and their loved ones.

Furthermore, "My Mother at Sixty-six" emphasizes the enduring bond between parent and child, encapsulating the profound love, support, and comfort that family relationships provide, even in the face of aging and eventual separation.

Overall, the poem encourages readers to embrace empathy, cherish their loved ones, and acknowledge the beauty and fragility of life's journey.

Poetic devices used in the poem -"My Mother at Sixty-six" by Kamala Das employs several poetic devices to convey its themes and evoke emotions. Some of the key poetic devices used in the poem include:

Imagery: The poet uses vivid imagery to paint a picture of the scenes and emotions described in the poem. For example, the image of the mother dozing with her "open mouthed" and "ashen" face vividly portrays her vulnerability and frailty.

Simile: Kamala Das employs similes to create vivid comparisons, such as "her face ashen like that / of a corpse." This simile emphasizes the pallor and fragility of the mother's face, evoking a sense of mortality and vulnerability.

Symbolism: The journey in the car serves as a symbol of the passage of time and the journey through life. The passing scenery and the mother's aging serve as symbolic representations of the inevitability of change and aging.

Alliteration: The repetition of consonant sounds, such as in "young trees sprinting" and "fields all / muddled up," creates a rhythmic quality to the poem and enhances its musicality.

Personification: The poet personifies nature, describing the "young trees sprinting" and the "fields all / muddled up." This personification adds depth to the imagery and emphasizes the contrast between the vitality of nature and the mother's aging.

Repetition: The repetition of the phrase "My mother at sixty-six" throughout the poem emphasizes the central theme of the mother's age and serves as a refrain that reinforces the poem's message.

Overall, these poetic devices contribute to the emotional resonance of the poem and enhance its themes of aging, mortality, and the parent-child relationship.

 

What are the images presented in this poem.

In "My Mother at Sixty-six," Kamala Das presents various vivid images that contribute to the emotional impact of the poem. Some of the key images include:

The image of the poet's mother dozing beside her in the car, with her mouth open and her face ashen, evokes a sense of vulnerability and fragility.

The passing scenery outside the car window, including "young trees sprinting," "cattle on their way to graze," and "fields all muddled up with young green crops," creates a vivid picture of the rural landscape through which they are traveling.

The image of the mother's face as "ashen like that / of a corpse" emphasizes her frailty and mortality, serving as a stark reminder of the aging process.

The image of the poet's childhood sinking and her "tall self / dissolve in pity" for her mother's loneliness conveys a poignant sense of empathy and compassion.

The image of the poet contemplating the possibility of her mother's mortality and her own right to mourn if anything were to happen to her mother brings a sense of inevitability and sadness to the poem.

Overall, these images contribute to the poem's exploration of aging, mortality, and the complex emotions that arise within the parent-child relationship. They help to create a rich sensory experience for the reader and enhance the poem's emotional resonance.

 

Questions and answers carrying 1 mark.

1.Who is the poet of the poem "My Mother at Sixty-six"?

Ans-Kamala Das.

2.What is the central theme of the poem?

Ans-The central theme revolves around aging, mortality, and the emotional impact of witnessing a loved one grow old.

3.What is the significance of the journey in the poem?

Ans-The journey symbolizes the passage of time and life's journey, reflecting on the inevitability of change and aging.

4.Describe the condition of the mother as depicted in the poem.

Ans-The mother is depicted as dozing with her mouth open, her face ashen, and looking frail and vulnerable.

5.How does the poet feel about her mother's aging?

Ans-The poet feels a mixture of empathy, compassion, and a sense of loss as she confronts her mother's aging.

6.What emotion does the image of the mother's face as "ashen like that / of a corpse" evoke?

Ans-The image evokes a sense of mortality and frailty.

7.What does the poet contemplate regarding her mother's mortality?

Ans-The poet contemplates her own right to mourn if anything were to happen to her mother, reminiscent of the mourning period after her father's death.

8.How does nature play a role in the poem?

Ans-Nature serves as a backdrop, with vivid descriptions of the passing scenery outside the car window, creating a contrast between the vitality of nature and the aging of the mother.

9.What poetic device is used in the repetition of the phrase "My mother at sixty-six"?

Ans-The poetic device used is repetition, emphasizing the central theme of the mother's age throughout the poem.

10.What emotion does the poet feel towards her mother's loneliness?

Ans-The poet feels a deep sense of pity and empathy towards her mother's loneliness, reminiscing about the comfort her mother provided during difficult times.

 

Questions and answers carrying 3 marks

1.Describe the imagery used in the poem "My Mother at Sixty-six" and explain its significance in conveying the poem's themes.

Ans-The imagery in the poem includes vivid descriptions of the mother's appearance, the passing scenery outside the car window, and the poet's emotional reflections. The image of the mother dozing with her mouth open and her face ashen highlights her vulnerability and mortality. The imagery of the passing scenery, such as the "young trees sprinting" and the "fields all muddled up with young green crops," symbolizes the passage of time and life's journey. This imagery contributes to conveying the themes of aging, mortality, and the emotional impact of witnessing a loved one grow old.

 

2.Discuss the role of empathy in the poem "My Mother at Sixty-six" and how it shapes the poet's perspective.

Ans-Empathy plays a significant role in the poem as the poet expresses a deep sense of empathy towards her aging mother. The poet's observation of her mother's frailty and vulnerability prompts feelings of compassion and understanding. The poet reflects on her mother's loneliness and the challenges of aging, which evoke a strong emotional response. This empathy shapes the poet's perspective by fostering a deeper appreciation for her mother's experiences and highlighting the universal human experience of confronting the inevitability of aging and mortality.

 

3.Analyse the significance of the journey in "My Mother at Sixty-six" and its symbolic representation in the poem.

Ans-The journey in the poem serves as a metaphor for the passage of time and life's journey. It symbolizes the inevitability of change and aging, as the poet and her mother travel together through the countryside. The passing scenery outside the car window reflects the changing landscape of life, with the imagery of the "young trees sprinting" and the "fields all muddled up with young green crops" representing the stages of growth and transformation. This journey serves to emphasize the central themes of aging, mortality, and the emotional complexities of the parent-child relationship.

 

4.How does the poet use repetition in "My Mother at Sixty-six" to reinforce the poem's message?

Ans-The poet utilizes repetition by repeatedly referring to the mother's age with the phrase "My mother at sixty-six." This repetition emphasizes the central theme of the mother's aging throughout the poem, serving as a refrain that reinforces the poem's message. By repeating this phrase, the poet draws attention to the passage of time and the inevitability of aging, underscoring the emotional impact of witnessing a loved one grow old.

 

5.Discuss the role of nature in "My Mother at Sixty-six" and how it contributes to the poem's themes.

Ans-Nature serves as a backdrop in the poem, with vivid descriptions of the passing scenery outside the car window. The imagery of nature, such as the "young trees sprinting" and the "fields all muddled up with young green crops," creates a contrast between the vitality of nature and the aging of the mother. This juxtaposition highlights the themes of aging, mortality, and the cyclical nature of life. Additionally, nature's presence adds depth to the poem by symbolizing the passage of time and life's journey, contributing to the emotional resonance of the poem.

 

 

6.Explain how the use of simile enhances the imagery in "My Mother at Sixty-six" and contributes to the poem's emotional impact.

Ans-The poet employs simile to create vivid comparisons, such as "her face ashen like that / of a corpse." This simile evokes a stark image of the mother's frailty and mortality, emphasizing the emotional weight of witnessing her aging. By likening her mother's face to that of a corpse, the poet conveys the sense of vulnerability and impending loss, intensifying the reader's emotional response. This use of simile enhances the imagery in the poem, adding depth to the portrayal of the mother's condition and amplifying the poem's emotional impact.

Discuss the significance of the mother's appearance and condition in "My Mother at Sixty-six" and how it reflects the poem's themes.

 

The description of the mother's appearance and condition, with her face ashen and her mouth open as she dozes in the car, is significant as it symbolizes her vulnerability and mortality. This portrayal reflects the poem's themes of aging, mortality, and the emotional complexities of the parent-child relationship. The mother's frailty serves as a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the inevitability of aging, prompting the poet to reflect on her own mortality and the preciousness of time spent with loved ones. The mother's appearance also evokes a sense of empathy and compassion in the poet, highlighting the profound emotional impact of witnessing a loved one grow old.

 

7.How does the poet's reflection on her mother's loneliness contribute to the overall message of "My Mother at Sixty-six"?

Ans-The poet's reflection on her mother's loneliness adds depth to the portrayal of aging and the parent-child relationship in the poem. By contemplating her mother's loneliness, the poet emphasizes the emotional toll of aging and the importance of companionship and emotional support. This reflection underscores the universal experience of confronting the vulnerability and isolation that can accompany old age. It also reinforces the poem's central message of cherishing and appreciating our loved ones, especially as they age, and highlights the enduring bond between parent and child.

 

8.Discuss the role of memory and reflection in "My Mother at Sixty-six" and how it shapes the poet's perspective.

Ans-Memory and reflection play a significant role in the poem as the poet reminisces about her childhood and reflects on her relationship with her mother. These memories and reflections shape the poet's perspective by providing context for her emotions and highlighting the depth of her connection to her mother. The poet's recollection of her mother's comforting presence during difficult times and her contemplation of her mother's aging evoke a range of emotions, including empathy, compassion, and a sense of loss. This introspective journey allows the poet to confront the inevitability of aging and mortality, ultimately deepening her appreciation for her mother and the time they share together.

 

9.How does the poet explore the theme of mortality in "My Mother at Sixty-six," and what effect does it have on the reader?

Ans-The poet explores the theme of mortality through vivid imagery, reflection, and contemplation of her mother's aging. The depiction of the mother's frailty and vulnerability serves as a stark reminder of the passage of time and the inevitability of death. This exploration of mortality evokes a sense of introspection and contemplation in the reader, prompting them to reflect on their own mortality and the fleeting nature of life. The poet's portrayal of aging and mortality fosters a deeper emotional connection with the reader, eliciting empathy, compassion, and a heightened appreciation for the preciousness of life and the relationships we hold dear.

 

Questions and answers carrying 5 marks.

1.How does Kamala Das use imagery and symbolism in "My Mother at Sixty-six" to convey the central themes of aging and mortality?

Ans-Kamala Das employs vivid imagery throughout the poem to depict the mother's aging and frailty, such as describing her face as "ashen like that / of a corpse" and portraying her dozing with her mouth open. These images evoke a sense of vulnerability and mortality, emphasizing the inevitability of aging. Additionally, the passing scenery outside the car window, including "young trees sprinting" and "fields all muddled up with young green crops," serves as a symbol of life's journey and the passage of time. This symbolism reinforces the central themes of aging and mortality by highlighting the cyclical nature of life and the transient beauty of youth.

 

2.Discuss the role of empathy and reflection in "My Mother at Sixty-six" and how they shape the poet's perspective on aging and mortality.

Ans-Empathy and reflection play a significant role in the poem as the poet observes her mother's aging and reflects on her own mortality. The poet's empathy towards her mother's vulnerability and loneliness prompts feelings of compassion and understanding, deepening her emotional connection to her mother. This empathy shapes the poet's perspective by fostering a greater appreciation for the fleeting nature of life and the preciousness of time spent with loved ones. Through introspection and reflection, the poet confronts the inevitability of aging and mortality, ultimately deepening her understanding of the human experience and the enduring bond between parent and child.

 

3.Analyze the significance of the journey motif in "My Mother at Sixty-six" and how it contributes to the poem's exploration of aging and mortality.

Ans-The journey motif in the poem serves as a metaphor for the passage of time and life's journey, symbolizing the inevitability of change and aging. As the poet and her mother travel together in the car, the passing scenery outside the window reflects the changing landscape of life, with images of "young trees sprinting" and "fields all muddled up with young green crops" representing the stages of growth and transformation. This journey motif contributes to the poem's exploration of aging and mortality by highlighting the cyclical nature of life and the transient beauty of youth. It also underscores the importance of cherishing and appreciating our loved ones, especially as they age, as emphasized by the poet's reflection on her mother's condition and the preciousness of their time together.

 

4.How does Kamala Das use poetic devices such as simile, repetition, and personification in "My Mother at Sixty-six" to enhance the emotional resonance of the poem?

Ans-Kamala Das employs various poetic devices to enhance the emotional resonance of the poem. For example, the simile "her face ashen like that / of a corpse" vividly depicts the mother's frailty and mortality, evoking a strong emotional response in the reader. The repetition of the phrase "My mother at sixty-six" serves as a refrain that reinforces the central theme of aging and mortality, creating a rhythmic quality to the poem. Additionally, the personification of nature, such as describing "young trees sprinting" and "fields all muddled up," adds depth to the imagery and emphasizes the contrast between the vitality of nature and the aging of the mother. These poetic devices contribute to the emotional resonance of the poem by evoking empathy, compassion, and a heightened awareness of the passage of time.

 

5.Discuss the significance of memory and reflection in "My Mother at Sixty-six" and how they contribute to the poet's exploration of aging and mortality.

Ans-Memory and reflection play a significant role in the poem as the poet reminisces about her childhood and reflects on her relationship with her mother. These memories and reflections provide context for the poet's emotions and deepen her understanding of the human experience. By contemplating her mother's aging and mortality, the poet confronts her own mortality and the fleeting nature of life, prompting a sense of introspection and contemplation in the reader. This exploration of memory and reflection contributes to the poet's exploration of aging and mortality by highlighting the universal experience of confronting the passage of time and the inevitability of death. It also underscores the enduring bond between parent and child, emphasizing the importance of cherishing and appreciating our loved ones, especially as they age.

1. https://wbstudentsnotes.blogspot.com

2. https://internationalenglishskill.blogspot.com

 

Kamala Das