Lakshman
“Hark! Lakshman! Hark, again that cry!
It is, — it is my husband’s voice!
Oh hasten, to his succour fly,
No more hast thou, dear friend, a choice.
He calls on thee, perhaps his foes
Environ him on all sides round,
That wail, — it means death’s final throes!
Why standest thou, as magic-bound?
“Is this a time for thought, — oh gird
Thy bright sword on, and take thy bow!
He heeds not, hears not any word,
Evil hangs over us, I know!
Swift in decision, prompt in deed,
Brave unto rashness, can this be,
The man to whom all looked at need?
Is it my brother that I see!
“Oh no, and I must run alone,
For further here I cannot stay;
Art thou transformed to blind dumb stone!
Wherefore this impious, strange delay!
That cry, — that cry, — it seems to ring
Still in my ears, — I cannot bear
Suspense; if help we fail to bring
His death at least we both can share”
“Oh calm thyself, Videhan Queen,
No cause is there for any fear,
Hast thou his prowess never seen?
Wipe off for shame that dastard tear!
What being of demonian birth
Could ever brave his mighty arm?
Is there a creature on earth
That dares to work our hero harm?
“The lion and the grisly bear
Cower when they see his royal look,
Sun-staring eagles of the air
His glance of anger cannot brook,
Pythons and cobras at his tread
To their most secret coverts glide,
Bowed to the dust each serpent head
Erect before in hooded pride.
“Rakshasas, Danavs, demons, ghosts,
Acknowledge in their hearts his might,
And slink to their remotest coasts,
In terror at his very sight.
Evil to him! Oh fear it not,
Whatever foes against him rise!
Banish for aye the foolish thought,
And be thyself, — bold, great, and wise.
“He call for help! Canst thou believe
He like a child would shriek for aid
Or pray for respite or reprieve —
Not of such metal is he made!
Delusive was that piercing cry, —
Some trick of magic by the foe;
He has a work, — he cannot die,
Beseech me not from hence to go.
For here beside thee, as a guard
‘Twas he commanded me to stay,
And dangers with my life to ward
If they should come across thy way.
Send me not hence, for in this wood
Bands scattered of the giants lurk,
Who on their wrongs and vengeance brood,
And wait the hour their will to work.”
“Oh shame! and canst thou make my weal
A plea for lingering! Now I know
What thou art, Lakshman! And I feel
Far better were an open foe.
Art thou a coward? I have seen
Thy bearing in the battle-fray
Where flew the death-fraught arrows keen,
Else had I judged thee so today.
“But then thy leader stood beside!
Dazzles the cloud when shines the sun,
Reft of his radiance, see it glide
A shapeless mass of vapours dun;
So of thy courage, — or if not,
The matter is far darker dyed,
What makes thee loth to leave this spot?
Is there a motive thou wouldst hide?
“He perishes — well, let him die!
His wife henceforth shall be mine own!
Can that thought deep imbedded lie
Within thy heart’s most secret zone!
Search well and see! one brother takes
His kingdom, — one would take his wife!
A fair partition! — But it makes
Me shudder, and abhor my life.
“Art thou in secret league with those
Who from his hope the kingdom rent?
A spy from his ignoble foes
To track him in his banishment?
And wouldst thou at his death rejoice?
I know thou wouldst, or sure ere now
When first thou heardst that well known voice
Thou shouldst have run to aid, I trow.
“Learn this, — whatever comes may come,
But I shall not survive my Love,
Of all my thoughts here is the sum!
Witness it gods in heaven above.
If fire can burn, or water drown,
I follow him: — choose what thou wilt
Truth with its everlasting crown,
Or falsehood, treachery, and guilt.
“Remain here with a vain pretence
Of shielding me from wrong and shame,
Or go and die in his defence
And leave behind a noble name.
Choose what thou wilt, — I urge no more,
My pathway lies before me clear,
I did not know thy mind before,
I know thee now, — and have no fear.”
She said and proudly from him turned, —
Was this the gentle Sita? No.
Flames from her eyes shot forth and burned,
The tears therein had ceased to flow.
“Hear me, O Queen, ere I depart,
No longer can I bear thy words,
They lacerate my inmost heart
And torture me, like poisoned swords.
“Have I deserved this at thine hand?
Of lifelong loyalty and truth
Is this the meed? I understand
Thy feelings, Sita, and in sooth
I blame thee not, — but thou mightst be
Less rash in judgement, Look! I go,
Little I care what comes to me
Wert thou but safe, — God keep thee so!
“In going hence I disregard
The plainest orders of my chief,
A deed for me, — a soldier, — hard
And deeply painful, but thy grief
And language, wild and wrong, allow
No other course. Mine be the crime,
And mine alone. — but oh, do thou
Think better of me from this time.
“Here with an arrow, lo, I trace
A magic circle ere I leave,
No evil thing within this space
May come to harm thee or to grieve.
Step not, for aught, across the line,
Whatever thou mayst see or hear,
So shalt thou balk the bad design
Of every enemy I fear.
“And now farewell! What thou hast said,
Though it has broken quite my heart,
So that I wish I were dead —
I would before, O Queen, we part,
Freely forgive, for well I know
That grief and fear have made thee wild,
We part as friends, — is it not so?”
And speaking thus he sadly smiled.
“And oh ye sylvan gods that dwell
Among these dim and sombre shades,
Whose voices in the breezes swell
And blend with noises of cascades,
Watch over Sita, whom alone
I leave, and keep her safe from harm,
Till we return unto our own,
I and my brother, arm in arm.
“For though ill omens round us rise
And frighten her dear heart, I feel
That he is safe. Beneath the skies
His equal is not, — and his heel
Shall tread all adversaries down,
Whoeve’r they may chance to be.
Farewell, O Sita! Blessings crown
And peace for ever rest with thee!”
He said, and straight his weapons took
His bow and arrows pointed keen,
Kind, — nay, indulgent, — was his look,
No trace of anger, there was seen,
Only a sorrow dark, that seemed
To deepen his resolve to dare
All dangers. Hoarse the vulture screamed,
As out he strode with dauntless air.
Introduction
The poem Lakshman vividly portrays a dramatic moment from the Ramayana, focusing on the emotional turmoil of Sita and Lakshman. Sita, hearing what she believes to be Ram’s cries for help, pleads with Lakshman to rescue him. However, Lakshman, bound by his duty to protect her, refuses to leave. The poem captures their intense argument, highlighting themes of duty, love, loyalty, and misunderstanding.
Brief Summary
Sita frantically urges Lakshman to help Ram, believing he is in danger. She accuses Lakshman of cowardice and even questions his intentions, implying that he might desire her as his own. Lakshman, deeply hurt but unwavering in his duty, tries to reassure Sita of Ram’s invincibility and warns her about stepping beyond the protective circle he draws around her. Finally, torn between obedience and her distress, he leaves to find Ram, while Sita remains behind.
Critical Analysis
The poem explores the conflict between duty and emotion. Lakshman’s loyalty to Ram is unshakable, yet Sita’s desperation forces him into a painful dilemma. Sita’s harsh words reveal the fragility of trust under distress, while Lakshman’s calm endurance demonstrates his inner strength. The poet masterfully builds tension through powerful dialogue, showcasing the intensity of the moment. The contrast between Sita’s frantic urgency and Lakshman’s composed reasoning adds depth to their characters. The use of natural imagery, such as the lion, bear, and eagles, reinforces Ram’s might and hints at the larger cosmic battle of good versus evil.
Themes
- Dharma (Duty) – Lakshman struggles between his duty to Ram and his responsibility to Sita.
- Love and Devotion – Sita’s deep love for Ram drives her desperation.
- Loyalty and Sacrifice – Lakshman’s unwavering devotion to Ram despite accusations.
- Misunderstanding and Mistrust – Sita wrongly suspects Lakshman, showing how fear clouds judgment.
- Good vs. Evil – The lurking danger of demons hints at the larger battle unfolding.
Literary Devices
- Imagery – Vivid descriptions of nature and supernatural forces enhance the dramatic effect.
- Repetition – “That cry, — that cry” emphasizes Sita’s distress.
- Symbolism – The magic circle represents protection and boundaries of duty.
- Contrast – Sita’s fiery accusations vs. Lakshman’s calm reasoning.
- Alliteration – “Banish for aye the foolish thought” enhances rhythm and emphasis.
The poem effectively captures a pivotal moment in Ramayana, bringing out the emotional intensity of duty, devotion, and misjudgment.
Detailed Summary of the Poem “Lakshman”
The poem “Lakshman” vividly captures one of the most intense and emotionally charged moments from the Ramayana—the moment when Sita compels Lakshman to leave her alone in the forest, leading to her abduction by Ravana. Through dramatic dialogue and powerful imagery, the poem explores themes of duty, honor, misunderstanding, and sacrifice.
Introduction & Context
The scene takes place in the Panchavati forest, where Ram, Lakshman, and Sita are living in exile. Suddenly, Sita hears a desperate cry for help, which she believes to be Ram in distress. In reality, this is a trick played by the demon king Ravana and his ally Maricha, who has transformed into a golden deer to lure Ram away and deceive Sita.
When Ram chases the deer and finally kills it, Maricha mimics Ram’s voice, calling for Lakshman and Sita in pain and desperation. Sita, hearing this, panics and orders Lakshman to go and help Ram. However, Lakshman knows that Ram is invincible and strongly believes this is a demonic illusion. He refuses to leave Sita alone, as he has been commanded by Ram to guard her. This disagreement between them forms the core conflict of the poem.
Sita’s Emotional Plea (Stanzas 1–3)
The poem begins with Sita’s urgent cries to Lakshman, demanding that he go and rescue Ram. She is frantic and desperate, believing her husband to be in mortal danger. She cannot understand why Lakshman, known for his bravery, is standing still as if frozen by magic instead of running to Ram’s aid.
She reminds Lakshman of his duty and criticizes his inaction, making him feel pressured and conflicted.
Lakshman’s Reasoned Response (Stanzas 4–7)
Lakshman, however, remains calm and logical. He reassures Sita that Ram is too powerful to be in danger. He explains that no demon, beast, or supernatural force can defeat Ram. Even nature itself bows to Ram’s strength—lions and bears cower before him, eagles cannot withstand his gaze, and serpents flee from his presence.
Lakshman insists that the cry Sita heard is a trick, likely a magical illusion created by their enemies. He urges her to stay calm and trust in Ram’s strength.
Sita’s Harsh Accusations (Stanzas 8–12)
Sita, however, misinterprets Lakshman’s reluctance. In a moment of extreme frustration and fear, she begins to accuse Lakshman of betrayal.
- She first insults his bravery, saying that he is nothing without Ram.
- Then, she implies that he has ulterior motives—suggesting that he secretly desires her and wants Ram to die so he can claim her as his wife.
- She even questions if he is a spy for Ram’s enemies, hinting at a larger conspiracy against her husband.
Her words deeply wound Lakshman, but instead of retaliating, he remains patient and controlled.
Lakshman’s Painful Decision (Stanzas 13–15)
Lakshman is shocked and heartbroken by Sita’s accusations. He has dedicated his life to serving Ram and Sita, and now he is being accused of the worst kind of betrayal. Yet, rather than defending his honor, he chooses to sacrifice his duty to protect Sita’s feelings.
He decides to leave against his better judgment, even though he knows it could be disastrous. He takes full responsibility for this mistake, saying that if anything happens, the blame will be on him alone.
This moment demonstrates Lakshman’s immense selflessness. Even though he knows Sita is making a grave mistake, he respects her wishes.
The Lakshman Rekha (Stanza 16)
Before leaving, Lakshman draws a magical protective circle (known as the Lakshman Rekha) around Sita. This is a barrier that no evil force can cross, ensuring her safety while he is away.
He warns Sita not to step outside the boundary, no matter what she sees or hears. If she obeys, no harm will come to her.
This act is crucial in the story—Sita will later break this rule, leading to her abduction by Ravana.
Lakshman’s Heartfelt Farewell (Stanzas 17–18)
Lakshman bids a sorrowful farewell to Sita. He tells her that, although her words have deeply hurt him, he chooses forgiveness over anger. He prays to the forest gods to watch over her in his absence and expresses hope that he and Ram will soon return to take her home.
He departs with a heavy heart, knowing he has disobeyed Ram’s order but also believing he had no choice.
The Tragic Consequence
Lakshman’s departure sets the tragedy into motion.
- Shortly after he leaves, Ravana arrives disguised as a beggar.
- He tricks Sita into stepping outside the Lakshman Rekha, violating the one rule that kept her safe.
- The moment she crosses the line, Ravana reveals his true form and kidnaps her, taking her to Lanka.
This event changes the course of the Ramayana—it leads to Ram’s great battle with Ravana and the eventual rescue of Sita.
Themes of the Poem
- Duty vs. Emotion
- Lakshman follows his duty with unwavering loyalty, but Sita’s emotional plea forces him to abandon his responsibility.
- Misunderstanding & Rash Judgment
- Sita misjudges Lakshman’s intentions, leading to a series of tragic events.
- Sacrifice & Selflessness
- Lakshman sacrifices his duty and reputation to satisfy Sita’s demand, knowing that he might be making a mistake.
- Power of Words
- Sita’s harsh words deeply wound Lakshman, showing that words can be as destructive as weapons.
- Fate & Destiny
- Despite Lakshman’s efforts, fate plays out as it must—Sita’s abduction is preordained, and no action could have changed it.
Conclusion
The poem “Lakshman” masterfully captures the tension, emotion, and tragedy of this pivotal moment in the Ramayana. Through Sita’s desperation, Lakshman’s unwavering devotion, and the cruel twist of fate, we see how misunderstandings and impulsive actions can lead to devastating consequences.
Lakshman emerges as the true hero of the poem, displaying loyalty, humility, and sacrifice, even in the face of false accusations and emotional turmoil.
This episode is a powerful lesson in trust, patience, and the dangers of letting fear cloud judgment—themes that remain relevant even today.
Poem Analysis: Stanza by Stanza
Stanza 1
“Hark! Lakshman! Hark, again that cry!
It is, — it is my husband’s voice!
Oh hasten, to his succour fly,
No more hast thou, dear friend, a choice.
He calls on thee, perhaps his foes
Environ him on all sides round,
That wail, — it means death’s final throes!
Why standest thou, as magic-bound?”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Hark – Listen carefully
- Succour – Help, aid
- Environ – Surround
- Final throes – Last moments of struggle before death
- Magic-bound – Frozen or paralyzed as if under a spell
Explanation & Context
Sita hears a distressing cry and immediately assumes it is Ram calling for help. She desperately urges Lakshman to rush to his aid, saying he has no other choice but to go. She fears that enemies have surrounded Ram and that the cry signals his imminent death. However, she is confused and frustrated by Lakshman’s lack of response, comparing his stillness to being spellbound.
This stanza sets the stage for the poem’s emotional intensity. It highlights Sita’s deep love and concern for Ram and her immediate reaction to perceived danger. Her desperation reflects the instinctive response of a loving wife, but it also shows how emotions can cloud judgment.
Stanza 2
“Is this a time for thought, — oh gird
Thy bright sword on, and take thy bow!
He heeds not, hears not any word,
Evil hangs over us, I know!
Swift in decision, prompt in deed,
Brave unto rashness, can this be,
The man to whom all looked at need?
Is it my brother that I see!”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Gird – Fasten or secure (especially a weapon)
- Heeds not – Does not listen
- Swift in decision – Quick in making choices
- Brave unto rashness – So brave that it may seem reckless
- Looked at need – Someone people depended on in times of crisis
Explanation & Context
Sita becomes more insistent, criticizing Lakshman for hesitating. She questions his bravery and decision-making skills, pointing out that he has always been known for his quick action. She finds his inaction out of character and cannot believe that this is the same Lakshman whom everyone has relied upon.
This stanza intensifies the conflict, as Sita begins to doubt Lakshman’s true nature. Her words reflect her fear, but they also start to take on an accusatory tone. The contrast between her panic and Lakshman’s composure foreshadows the misunderstanding that will grow between them.
Stanza 3
“Oh no, and I must run alone,
For further here I cannot stay;
Art thou transformed to blind dumb stone!
Wherefore this impious, strange delay!
That cry, — that cry, — it seems to ring
Still in my ears, — I cannot bear
Suspense; if help we fail to bring
His death at least we both can share”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Blind dumb stone – Completely unresponsive, like a lifeless rock
- Wherefore – Why
- Impious – Disrespectful, irreligious
- Suspense – Uncertainty or anxiety
Explanation & Context
Frustrated by Lakshman’s refusal to leave, Sita declares that she will go alone. She cannot understand why he is delaying and accuses him of being as unfeeling as a stone. The sound of Ram’s cry continues to haunt her, and she declares that if they cannot save him, at least they can die with him.
Sita’s words now become even more emotional and dramatic. Her fear of losing Ram leads her to challenge Lakshman’s morality. The idea of sharing death with Ram reflects the depth of her devotion, but also her impulsive nature, which blinds her to reason.
Stanza 4
“Oh calm thyself, Videhan Queen,
No cause is there for any fear,
Hast thou his prowess never seen?
Wipe off for shame that dastard tear!
What being of demonian birth
Could ever brave his mighty arm?
Is there a creature on earth
That dares to work our hero harm?”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Videhan Queen – Another name for Sita, referring to her kingdom of Videha
- Prowess – Great skill and bravery in battle
- Dastard – Cowardly
- Demonian birth – Born of demons
Explanation & Context
Lakshman finally responds, asking Sita to calm down. He reminds her of Ram’s unmatched strength and skill in battle, urging her not to cry in fear. He questions whether any demon or creature could even dare to challenge Ram.
This stanza reveals Lakshman’s absolute faith in Ram. Unlike Sita, he does not panic, because he believes in Ram’s invincibility. His words contrast sharply with Sita’s emotional turmoil, highlighting their differing perspectives.
Stanza 5
“The lion and the grisly bear
Cower when they see his royal look,
Sun-staring eagles of the air
His glance of anger cannot brook,
Pythons and cobras at his tread
To their most secret coverts glide,
Bowed to the dust each serpent head
Erect before in hooded pride.”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Grisly bear – Fearsome bear
- Cower – Shrink in fear
- Brook – Tolerate
- Covert – Hidden place
Explanation & Context
Lakshman continues to praise Ram’s supreme power, using vivid imagery. He compares Ram’s presence to that of a lion before whom all creatures tremble. Even dangerous serpents bow down before him.
This stanza reinforces the idea of Ram as a divine warrior, emphasizing his superiority over nature itself. Lakshman’s speech aims to reassure Sita and prove that her fears are baseless.
Stanza 6
“Rakshasas, Danavs, demons, ghosts,
Acknowledge in their hearts his might,
And slink to their remotest coasts,
In terror at his very sight.
Evil to him! Oh fear it not,
Whatever foes against him rise!
Banish for aye the foolish thought,
And be thyself, — bold, great, and wise.”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Rakshasas, Danavs – Types of demons in Hindu mythology
- Slink – Move away stealthily
- Aye – Always
Explanation & Context
Lakshman further assures Sita that even the most powerful demons are terrified of Ram. He tells her to dismiss her fears and act with courage and wisdom.
This stanza highlights Lakshman’s attempt to console Sita. His belief in Ram’s strength is unwavering, and he expects Sita to share the same faith.
Stanza 7
“He call for help! Canst thou believe
He like a child would shriek for aid
Or pray for respite or reprieve —
Not of such metal is he made!
Delusive was that piercing cry, —
Some trick of magic by the foe;
He has a work, — he cannot die,
Beseech me not from hence to go.”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Canst thou – Can you
- Respite or reprieve – A temporary relief or delay from danger
- Metal – (Metaphorically) Strength of character, courage
- Delusive – Misleading or deceptive
- Beseech – Beg or plead
Explanation & Context
Lakshman firmly refuses to leave, arguing that Ram would never cry for help like a helpless child. He insists that Ram is far too strong to seek assistance. He suggests that the cry Sita heard was an illusion, likely a trick played by their enemies. He also declares that Ram is destined for a greater purpose and cannot die so easily.
This stanza reveals Lakshman’s logical thinking and unwavering faith in Ram. His refusal to act impulsively contrasts with Sita’s emotional response. His mention of a “trick of magic” foreshadows the deception of Ravana, who has staged the false cry to lure Lakshman away.
Stanza 8
“For here beside thee, as a guard
‘Twas he commanded me to stay,
And dangers with my life to ward
If they should come across thy way.
Send me not hence, for in this wood
Bands scattered of the giants lurk,
Who on their wrongs and vengeance brood,
And wait the hour their will to work.”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Ward – Protect or defend
- Lurk – Hide and wait secretly
- Brood – Think deeply about something (often negatively)
- Scattered bands – Small groups spread out
Explanation & Context
Lakshman reminds Sita that Ram himself ordered him to stay and protect her. He warns her that the forest is full of lurking dangers, with demons waiting for the right moment to attack. If he leaves, she will be left vulnerable.
This stanza highlights Lakshman’s sense of duty and responsibility. He prioritizes Ram’s command over Sita’s emotions, showing his disciplined and obedient nature. At the same time, his warning about hidden enemies foreshadows Ravana’s upcoming scheme.
Stanza 9
“Oh shame! and canst thou make my weal
A plea for lingering! Now I know
What thou art, Lakshman! And I feel
Far better were an open foe.
Art thou a coward? I have seen
Thy bearing in the battle-fray
Where flew the death-fraught arrows keen,
Else had I judged thee so today.”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Weal – Well-being, safety
- Plea for lingering – Excuse for delaying
- Battle-fray – Chaos of battle
- Death-fraught arrows keen – Deadly, sharp arrows
Explanation & Context
Sita misinterprets Lakshman’s refusal as selfishness. She feels betrayed and suggests that she would rather have an open enemy than a deceitful friend. She even questions Lakshman’s bravery, despite knowing his strength in battle.
This stanza marks a turning point in the argument, where Sita’s words become deeply hurtful. Her accusations stem from fear and desperation, but they deeply wound Lakshman’s honor and loyalty. The stanza also highlights how emotions can cloud judgment, leading to misunderstandings even between loved ones.
Stanza 10
“But then thy leader stood beside!
Dazzles the cloud when shines the sun,
Reft of his radiance, see it glide
A shapeless mass of vapours dun;
So of thy courage, — or if not,
The matter is far darker dyed,
What makes thee loth to leave this spot?
Is there a motive thou wouldst hide?”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Reft of his radiance – Deprived of his light
- Vapours dun – Dark, dull clouds
- Loth – Reluctant
Explanation & Context
Sita cruelly suggests that Lakshman is only brave when Ram is around and compares him to a cloud that loses its brilliance without the sun. She then accuses him of having a hidden reason for not wanting to leave.
This stanza is the height of Sita’s harsh words, as she now implies Lakshman may have ulterior motives. She attacks his pride and honor, unknowingly striking at his deepest loyalty. Her comparison of Lakshman’s bravery to a fading cloud further intensifies the insult.
Stanza 11
“He perishes — well, let him die!
His wife henceforth shall be mine own!
Can that thought deep imbedded lie
Within thy heart’s most secret zone!
Search well and see! one brother takes
His kingdom, — one would take his wife!
A fair partition! — But it makes
Me shudder, and abhor my life.”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Perishes – Dies
- Imbedded – Deeply fixed
- Secret zone – Hidden part of the heart
- Abhor – Hate, detest
Explanation & Context
Sita’s accusations reach their most extreme point. She shockingly suggests that Lakshman secretly desires her and would benefit from Ram’s death. She compares his actions to Bharata taking the throne and now implies Lakshman might want Ram’s wife.
This stanza is the emotional climax of the argument. Sita’s words deeply insult Lakshman’s pure devotion. The accusation of lust and betrayal is unbearable for him, and it ultimately forces him to break his duty and leave.
Stanza 12
“Remain here with a vain pretence
Of shielding me from wrong and shame,
Or go and die in his defence
And leave behind a noble name.
Choose what thou wilt, — I urge no more,
My pathway lies before me clear,
I did not know thy mind before,
I know thee now, — and have no fear.”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Vain pretence – Useless excuse
- Noble name – Honor in death
- Lies before me clear – Her decision is final
Explanation & Context
Sita gives Lakshman an ultimatum: either stay behind as a coward or go fight and die with honor. She declares that she now understands his true nature and has lost all fear.
Her words leave Lakshman with no choice. The conflict between duty and honor reaches its peak, and he must act against his own judgment because of her cruel accusations.
Stanza 13
“She said and proudly from him turned, —
Was this the gentle Sita? No.
Flames from her eyes shot forth and burned,
The tears therein had ceased to flow.
‘Hear me, O Queen, ere I depart,
No longer can I bear thy words,
They lacerate my inmost heart
And torture me, like poisoned swords.'”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Proudly from him turned – Walked away with arrogance and finality
- Lacerate – To deeply wound or cut
- Inmost heart – Deepest emotions and feelings
- Poisoned swords – A metaphor for words that cause deep pain
Explanation & Context
After delivering her cruel accusations, Sita turns away with pride, completely rejecting Lakshman’s explanations. The stanza describes how she is no longer the gentle, loving Sita but has been overtaken by anger and suspicion. Her eyes burn with fury, showing her transformation from a grieving wife to a woman scorned.
Lakshman, deeply hurt, finally speaks out. He expresses the unbearable pain her words have caused, comparing them to poisoned swords. This moment emphasizes his emotional suffering—despite his unwavering loyalty, he is accused of treachery.
This stanza highlights the power of words to wound deeply, especially when spoken in anger and fear. It also marks Lakshman’s breaking point—he can no longer endure Sita’s accusations.
Stanza 14
“Have I deserved this at thine hand?
Of lifelong loyalty and truth
Is this the meed? I understand
Thy feelings, Sita, and in sooth
I blame thee not, — but thou mightst be
Less rash in judgement, Look! I go,
Little I care what comes to me
Wert thou but safe, — God keep thee so!”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- At thine hand – From you
- Meed – Reward or consequence
- In sooth – In truth
- Rash in judgment – Making a quick and harsh decision
Explanation & Context
Lakshman questions whether he truly deserves such harsh treatment after a lifetime of loyalty and truth. He acknowledges that Sita’s fear has clouded her judgment but wishes she had been less hasty in her accusations.
Despite the pain she has caused him, Lakshman does not hold resentment. Instead, he decides to leave, prioritizing Sita’s safety over his own humiliation. He resigns himself to fate, expressing a final wish for her well-being.
This stanza beautifully captures Lakshman’s nobility and self-sacrifice. Even after being wrongly accused, he continues to care for Sita’s safety rather than his own dignity.
Stanza 15
“In going hence I disregard
The plainest orders of my chief,
A deed for me, — a soldier, — hard
And deeply painful, but thy grief
And language, wild and wrong, allow
No other course. Mine be the crime,
And mine alone. — but oh, do thou
Think better of me from this time.”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Disregard – Ignore
- Chief – His leader, Ram
- Wild and wrong – Irrational and unfair
- Mine be the crime – I will take the blame
Explanation & Context
Lakshman acknowledges that by leaving, he is disobeying Ram’s direct command, which is extremely painful for a warrior like him. However, he feels that Sita’s harsh words leave him no choice.
Rather than blaming Sita, he takes full responsibility for the decision, demonstrating his deep humility and selflessness. Even though she has wronged him, he asks only that she change her opinion of him in the future.
This stanza shows duty vs. personal honor—Lakshman is torn between obedience to Ram and proving himself to Sita. His willingness to take the blame highlights his noble character.
Stanza 16
“Here with an arrow, lo, I trace
A magic circle ere I leave,
No evil thing within this space
May come to harm thee or to grieve.
Step not, for aught, across the line,
Whatever thou mayst see or hear,
So shalt thou balk the bad design
Of every enemy I fear.”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Trace – Draw or create
- Magic circle – A protective boundary
- Aught – Anything
- Balk – Prevent, block
Explanation & Context
Before leaving, Lakshman draws a magical circle (Lakshman Rekha) around Sita as a protective barrier. He warns her not to step outside it, no matter what happens, as it will keep her safe from all evil forces.
This moment is one of the most famous in the Ramayana, symbolizing protection and boundaries. Lakshman’s act shows his final attempt to safeguard Sita despite her words.
The Lakshman Rekha becomes crucial in the story, as Sita later crosses it, leading to her abduction by Ravana. This act represents how ignoring wisdom in moments of emotion can lead to disaster.
Stanza 17
“And now farewell! What thou hast said,
Though it has broken quite my heart,
So that I wish I were dead —
I would before, O Queen, we part,
Freely forgive, for well I know
That grief and fear have made thee wild,
We part as friends, — is it not so?”
And speaking thus he sadly smiled.
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Farewell – Goodbye
- Freely forgive – Completely forgive
- Made thee wild – Made you act irrationally
Explanation & Context
Lakshman bids Sita farewell, acknowledging that her words have deeply hurt him, even making him wish for death. Yet, he chooses forgiveness over resentment, recognizing that her grief and fear led her to speak unjustly.
His final question, “We part as friends, is it not so?” is filled with sorrow—he seeks reassurance that, despite everything, their bond remains unbroken. His sad smile is a powerful symbol of his emotional pain and unwavering nobility.
This stanza highlights Lakshman’s greatness of heart—even when wounded by injustice, he forgives and leaves with dignity.
Stanza 18
“And oh ye sylvan gods that dwell
Among these dim and sombre shades,
Whose voices in the breezes swell
And blend with noises of cascades,
Watch over Sita, whom alone
I leave, and keep her safe from harm,
Till we return unto our own,
I and my brother, arm in arm.”
Difficult Words & Meanings
- Sylvan gods – Forest deities
- Dim and sombre shades – Dark and gloomy shadows
- Cascades – Waterfalls
Explanation & Context
As Lakshman departs, he prays to the forest gods to protect Sita in his absence. This reveals his deep concern for her safety, even as he is forced to leave.
His final lines express his hope that he and Ram will soon return to reclaim her and go back home together. The image of “arm in arm” symbolizes brotherly unity and strength.
However, this hope will not be fulfilled, as his departure leads directly to Sita’s abduction. This stanza foreshadows the upcoming tragedy, making his farewell even more poignant.
Final Thoughts
This section of the poem explores deep themes of duty, misunderstanding, loyalty, and sacrifice. Sita’s accusations push Lakshman to an impossible choice, and his decision to leave leads to devastating consequences.
The Lakshman Rekha serves as a powerful symbol of protection and caution—one that is tragically ignored.
