Journey of Self-Discovery: My Personal Review on Bhawani S. Nial's Poem "I Have to Die One Day"
By
Leni Marlina*
In the labyrinthine corridors of my contemplation, I am captivated by the profound verses of Dr. Bhawani Shankar Nial's poem, "I HAVE TO DIE ONE DAY." This poetic masterpiece unfolds with a poignant meditation on mortality, encapsulated in lines that resonate deeply:
"The inevitability of my passing strikes:
'I have to die
At an auspicious hour,
For stuck I was
In the tangles
Of household life
Of ephemeral affairs.'"
These verses pierce through the mundane veil of everyday existence, prompting a profound introspection into the transient nature of life itself. Dr. Nial's choice of "ephemeral affairs" poignantly highlights how worldly distractions often entangle us, diverting attention from deeper existential contemplations.
Throughout the poem, Dr. Nial skillfully navigates the dualities of life and death, weaving a narrative that intertwines the ordinary with the metaphysical:
"A realm of reverence,
No less than my homeland,
Where I took my first breath,
And earned
Both acclaim and scorn,
Where I must inevitably return,
Choosing
My appointed time."
These lines evoke a deep reverence for cultural roots and ancestral ties, juxtaposed with the inevitable journey towards the earth. The imagery of "pious realm" and "homeland" resonates universally, reflecting a profound longing for connection amidst the fleeting pursuits that define our temporal existence.
As the poem unfolds, Dr. Nial introduces a chorus of characters --- beloveds both old and new --- whose presence becomes pivotal in provoking introspection:
"Meanwhile,
There arrived
To convene
Some cherished companions of mine,"
These encounters serve as poignant moments of reflection, where discussions unfold on profound themes such as life's purpose, the mysteries of birth and death, and the enduring legacy we leave behind. Through these dialogues, the poet navigates the intricate tapestry of human relationships and the inexorable passage of time.
