"Wandering Singers" by Sarojini Naidu is a heartfelt ode to the wandering minstrels who travel the world without any fixed abode, driven by the call of the wind. This poem delves into the essence of wanderlust, human connections, and the ultimate fate of these nomadic souls.
The poem begins with the singers acknowledging the irresistible call of the wind as the force driving them through echoing forests and streets. With their lutes in hand, they perpetually sing while wandering, embracing the world as their home, and considering all of humanity as their kin. They constantly move, valuing the profound connections they make along the way and the experiences they share without needing to belong anywhere specific.
The singers' songs are infused with potent imagery drawn from bygone days. They sing of once-glittering cities, the beauty and laughter of long-deceased women, old battles swords, and ancient kings' crowns. Their music also touches upon relatable human emotions and experiences, from happiness to sorrow, evoking a timeless quality that listeners connect with.
The poem then enquires about the dreams and hopes that these wandering souls gather and sow throughout their journey. They go where the wind leads them, acknowledging that neither love nor joy can force them to stay in one place for long. The poet emphasizes that these wandering singers heed the voice of the wind as an external manifestation of their fate. It propels their endless journey and, in a broader sense, symbolizes the wanderlust that resides in the human heart.
In summary, "Wandering Singers" by Sarojini Naidu is a beautiful exploration of the nomadic spirit, inspired by the allure of wanderlust, human connections, and life's inherent unpredictability. The poem celebrates the resilience and determination of these souls who venture through life with open hearts, embracing fate and the voice of the wind to guide their paths.