Assignment Paper number 108

 Name: Nirali Madhabhai Dabhi

Batch: M.A Sem. 2 (2022-2024)

Enrollment Number: 4069206420220006

Roll Number: 13

Subject code: 22401

Paper Number: 108- The American Literature 

Email Address: niralidabhi95@gmail.com

Submit to: Smt S.B. Gardi, Department of English, M.K.B.U

Comparing and contrasting Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen

Introduction of Bob Dylan:

Bob Dylan is a legendary American singer-songwriter, poet, and visual artist who was born on May 24, 1941, in Duluth, Minnesota. He rose to fame in the 1960s as a leading figure in the American folk music revival, and his music has had a profound influence on popular culture and the political landscape.

Dylan started his musical career in coffeehouses in Greenwich Village, New York City, where he developed a reputation for his thoughtful lyrics and distinctive vocal style. His early albums, such as "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan" and "The Times They Are a-Changin'," were heavily influenced by the Civil Rights Movement and the anti-war movement, and he became known as the "voice of a generation."

Throughout his career, Dylan has explored a wide range of musical styles, from folk and blues to rock and roll and country. He has also been known for his experimentation with electric instruments, which caused controversy among his fans and the music industry in the 1960s.

Dylan's music has been recognized with numerous awards, including 10 Grammy Awards, a Golden Globe, and an Academy Award. In 2016, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature "for having created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition."

Beyond his music, Dylan is also a visual artist, with his artwork exhibited in galleries around the world. He has published several books, including the memoir "Chronicles: Volume One," which was released in 2004.

Throughout his career, Dylan has continued to inspire generations of musicians and fans with his unique voice, poetic lyrics, and social consciousness. He remains one of the most important and influential figures in American music history.

Introduction of Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen is an American singer-songwriter, musician, and producer born on September 23, 1949, in Long Branch, New Jersey. He is known for his distinctively raspy voice, his high-energy live performances, and his deeply personal and often politically charged lyrics.

Springsteen's music is characterized by its rock and roll sound, which is often accompanied by powerful and memorable lyrics that explore themes of working-class life, social justice, and the American Dream. He rose to fame in the 1970s with his third album, "Born to Run," which was a commercial and critical success and helped establish him as one of the most important musicians of his generation.

Throughout his career, Springsteen has released a number of iconic albums, including "The River," "Born in the U.S.A.," and "Darkness on the Edge of Town." He has won numerous awards, including 20 Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and a Tony Award for his Broadway show "Springsteen on Broadway."

Beyond his music, Springsteen is also a philanthropist and activist. He has been involved in a number of social justice causes, including workers' rights and ending gun violence, and has used his music to raise awareness and support for these issues.

Springsteen's music continues to inspire generations of fans and musicians, and his live shows are legendary for their energy and intensity. He remains one of the most important and influential figures in American music history.

Musical Style

Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen are both known for their contributions to American music, but their musical styles are quite different.

Bob Dylan's early music was heavily influenced by folk music and blues, which he picked up during his time playing in coffeehouses in Greenwich Village in the early 1960s. His early albums, such as "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan" and "The Times They Are a-Changin'," featured acoustic guitars and harmonicas, and his lyrics often dealt with social and political issues. However, Dylan's music later evolved to include elements of rock and roll and electric instruments, such as on his landmark album "Highway 61 Revisited" and the controversial "Blonde on Blonde." Overall, Dylan's music is characterized by his distinctive, nasal voice, poetic lyrics, and eclectic blend of musical styles.

Bruce Springsteen's music is more rooted in rock and roll, with elements of folk, soul, and R&B mixed in. His early albums, such as "Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J." and "The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle," featured a raw, energetic sound, with Springsteen's lyrics often telling stories of working-class life and the struggles of the American Dream. As his career progressed, Springsteen's sound became more polished and produced, with albums like "Born in the U.S.A." featuring big, anthemic rock songs. Overall, Springsteen's music is characterized by his gravelly voice, passionate delivery, and ability to capture the essence of the American experience in his lyrics.

While both Dylan and Springsteen are often classified as rock musicians, their musical styles are distinct and reflect their individual influences and approaches to songwriting.

Lyrics and storytelling 

Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen are known for their ability to tell compelling stories through their lyrics. Let's take a closer look at their individual approaches to lyrics and storytelling:

Bob Dylan's lyrics are often characterized by their poetic and enigmatic quality. He has been known to employ surrealistic and metaphorical language, which can be difficult to decipher at times. Many of his early songs, such as "Blowin' in the Wind" and "The Times They Are a-Changin'," dealt with social and political issues of the time, while others, like "Mr. Tambourine Man" and "Tangled Up in Blue," explore personal themes and relationships. Dylan's lyrics often feature themes of protest, social injustice, and love, but they are often open to interpretation, leaving listeners to draw their own conclusions about their meaning.

Bruce Springsteen's lyrics, on the other hand, are often more direct and narrative-driven. His songs frequently tell stories of working-class life and the struggles of ordinary people, often inspired by his own experiences growing up in New Jersey. Songs like "Born to Run," "Thunder Road," and "The River" are anthems of youthful rebellion and escape, while others, like "Atlantic City" and "The Ghost of Tom Joad," offer critiques of the American Dream and the plight of the working poor. Springsteen's lyrics are often characterized by their vivid imagery and emotional intensity, and he is known for his ability to capture the essence of the American experience in his songs.

While Dylan's lyrics are often more abstract and open to interpretation, Springsteen's are more grounded in narrative storytelling. However, both artists share a commitment to exploring important social and cultural themes through their music. Whether they are singing about love, politics, or the struggles of everyday life, Dylan and Springsteen are masters of using their lyrics to create powerful stories that resonate with listeners.

Comparing and contrasting 

Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen are two of the most iconic and influential American musicians of the 20th century. While they share certain similarities in terms of their musical styles and political themes, there are also distinct differences in their approach to songwriting, performance, and cultural impact. In this essay, we will compare and contrast the careers of Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen.

Firstly, let us examine their musical styles. Both Dylan and Springsteen are known for their distinct voices and unique songwriting abilities. Dylan is often credited with revolutionizing folk music in the 1960s with his socially conscious lyrics and distinctive vocal style. He is also known for his use of poetic language and intricate storytelling in his songs. In contrast, Springsteen is associated with a more rock and roll sound, characterized by driving rhythms, soaring guitar solos, and anthemic choruses. His music often features working-class themes, and he is known for his high-energy live performances.

In terms of political themes, both Dylan and Springsteen have used their music as a platform to express their views on social justice and political activism. Dylan's early music was heavily influenced by the Civil Rights Movement and the anti-war movement, and his songs often dealt with themes of social inequality and injustice. Springsteen, on the other hand, has been vocal about his support for workers' rights and economic equality. Many of his songs deal with the struggles of the working class and the impact of economic inequality on American society.

Another important difference between Dylan and Springsteen is their cultural impact. Dylan is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential musicians of the 20th century, with a career that spans over six decades. He has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2016. Springsteen, while also highly acclaimed, has had a more limited impact on popular culture. However, his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary musicians who have been inspired by his unique style and social activism.

In terms of their approach to performance, there are also notable differences between Dylan and Springsteen. Dylan is known for his introspective and often understated performances, preferring to let his lyrics speak for themselves. Springsteen, on the other hand, is famous for his high-energy live shows, which often feature elaborate stage sets and theatrical performances.

Songs of both Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen

Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen are both highly regarded for their extensive catalogs of memorable and influential songs. Let's take a closer look at some of their most iconic songs:

Bob Dylan:

"Blowin' in the Wind": One of Dylan's most famous protest songs, "Blowin' in the Wind" was a major hit in the early 1960s and became an anthem of the civil rights movement.

"Like a Rolling Stone": A six-minute epic that redefined the possibilities of pop music, "Like a Rolling Stone" is considered one of Dylan's greatest achievements and a landmark of the rock era.

"Tangled Up in Blue": A complex, multi-layered song that reflects on a failed relationship, "Tangled Up in Blue" is widely regarded as one of Dylan's greatest compositions.

"Mr. Tambourine Man": A psychedelic-tinged classic that celebrates the power of music and imagination, "Mr. Tambourine Man" has been covered by countless artists over the years and remains a beloved song to this day.

"The Times They Are a-Changin'": Another of Dylan's most famous protest songs, "The Times They Are a-Changin'" is a stirring call to arms for social justice and political change.

Bruce Springsteen:

"Born to Run": An epic ode to youthful rebellion and escape, "Born to Run" is one of Springsteen's most iconic songs and a cornerstone of his live shows.

"Thunder Road": A cinematic, romantic ballad that tells the story of a young couple trying to escape their dead-end lives, "Thunder Road" is considered one of Springsteen's greatest songs.

"The River": A powerful reflection on the struggles of working-class life and the loss of youthful dreams, "The River" is a haunting and emotional masterpiece.

"Dancing in the Dark": A propulsive, synth-driven pop song that became one of Springsteen's biggest hits, "Dancing in the Dark" is an irresistible party anthem.

"Born in the USA": A scathing critique of American society and the treatment of veterans, "Born in the USA" is often misinterpreted as a patriotic anthem, but is actually a deeply political song.

Both Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen have written countless other iconic songs, but these examples give a sense of their individual styles and themes. Dylan's songs are often poetic and enigmatic, while Springsteen's are more narrative-driven and grounded in everyday life. Both artists have made important contributions to the history of popular music, and their songs continue to inspire and resonate with listeners today

Conclusion

While Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen share certain similarities in terms of their political themes and commitment to social justice, they also have distinct differences in their musical styles, cultural impact, and approach to performance. Both musicians have had a significant impact on American music and culture, and their legacies continue to influence artists around the world today.

(Word count- 1990)

Assignment Paper Number 107

Name: Nirali Madhabhai Dabhi

Batch: M.A Sem. 2 (2022-2024)

Enrollment Number: 4069206420220006

Roll Number: 13

Subject code: 22400

Paper Number: 107- The Twentieth Century Literature: 1900 to World War II to the End of the Century 

Email Address: niralidabhi95@gmail.com

Submit to: Smt S.B. Gardi, Department of English, M.K.B.U

Orwellian Parallels in Modern India

Brief Introduction of the author: 

George Orwell

George Orwell was the pen name of Eric Arthur Blair, a British writer and journalist born on June 25, 1903. He is best known for his works of dystopian fiction, including "Animal Farm" and "Nineteen Eighty-Four," which continue to be widely read and studied today. Orwell's experiences in the Spanish Civil War deeply influenced his writing. He died in 1950 at the age of 46 from tuberculosis, but his work remains highly influential in fields such as political science, literature, and journalism.

George Orwell's 1984 is a dystopian novel that depicts a society under constant surveillance under an authoritarian regime. To restrict people's freedom of speech, the government even imposes a new language: 'Newspeak.' In Orwell's valley of fear, the ruling party, Ingsoc, has created a world where every individual is simultaneously watching and being watched through a series of telescreens set up in every nook and corner of the cities. In this society, thinking of ideas that defy the rhetoric of the ruling party is considered a criminal offense, referred to as 'thoughtcrime.' Although our society has not yet found ways to criminalize thoughts, Orwell's fictional depiction of the future world is eerily coming true. The Logical Indian decodes George Orwell's 1984 in an uncanny depiction of the world we are living in today.

Big Brother Is Watching You

1984 - The citizens of the dystopian country, Oceania, are constantly being watched through telescreens, their every step is monitored. The Party says that this surveillance is for the greater good of the country. Those who violate the Party's rules are labelled as 'traitors' and they are eventually 'vapourised.' The people of Oceania always see Big Brother's face plastered on posters on the streets, on their telescreens and stamped onto the coins - a constant reminder that they are being watched. 

In India - The world is moving into the Orwellian era where every movement is being monitored - not only bodily movements but the likes and dislikes of an individual. Internet freedom declined in India—the result of an increase in arrests for online activity and continued internet shutdowns during times of perceived unrest. In its 2017 response to a Right to Information (RTI) request, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology confirmed that as many as 23,030 websites or URLs had been blocked. In another acknowledgment reflecting the scale of government blocking, the DoT confirmed in August 2018 that it had requested the blocking of 11,045 websites, webpages, and URLs since 2016. Some of the content that has been blocked includes social media networking groups and websites engaged in flaring up "anti-India" sentiments. Controversies also continued around Aadhaar, the world's largest biometric identification system and a problematic draft data protection bill remains in limbo. Meanwhile, ahead of the 2019 elections, incumbents and candidates manipulated content, used bots and employed volunteers to push inorganic content and exacerbate existing social tensions for political gain. Within this environment, marginalized groups, in particular, experienced online harassment and trolling. The Supreme Court ruled in September 2018 that the government's controversial biometric Aadhaar project is constitutional but set limits on the program's use. In March 2019, despite the court's restrictions, the government promulgated the Aadhaar Ordinance, allowing for the voluntary linking of Aadhaar numbers for commercial use. Local authorities continue to restrict connectivity routinely in India justifying shutdowns on the basis of protests, misinformation, exams and to maintain public order, among other things.

The 'Child Spies'

1984 - The child-spies are an important component of the Big Brother system that monitors the thoughts and activities of the citizens. Orwell writes that the children "were systematically turned against their parents and taught to spy on them and report their deviations." The motivation for the children to give up on their parents was being rewarded by public acknowledgement, being hailed as heroes. 

In India- In an uncomfortably similar scenario, a disturbing video surfaced in December 2019 amidst the anti-CAA protests where some children could be seen donning BJP caps, joyously walking and chanting slogans such as "Desh ke gaddaro ko, goli maaro saalo ko!" and "Aatankwadi ki kya pehchan? Mulla, Masjid, Pakistan!" Hatred breeds more hatred. Children - the future of our country - should be protected from vile and hate, for their sake and the sake of the country.

Thought Police 

1984 - The most terrifying part of the book is that one couldn't keep Big Brother out of one's head. The real goal of Orwell's authoritarians in 1984 is to control the grey matter between the ears. The Thought Police use psychological warfare and false-flag operations to entrap free thinkers or nonconformists and proceed to 'vaporise' or remove them from existence. In a sense, 1984 is largely a book about humans trying to hold onto the truth in the face of propaganda and power. 

In India- The rise in Modi fanfare overlaps with an exponential rise in the use of social media in India, a medium that this government has exploited over and over to mobilise public opinion, and use tags like "anti-national" to discredit anyone questioning the state narrative. Speaking about the thought police, one can't help but mention the recent acts of Delhi police. On 5th January, masked goons entered the Jawaharlal Nehru University campus with sticks and rods, beat-up the students and left — all under the watch of Delhi Police. Dozens of goons, with their faces covered with mufflers, chanted slogans — "Desh ke gaddaro ko, goli maaro saalon ko," went so far as to not allow ambulances to reach the campus by puncturing tyres and smashing windows. And yet, all of this happened next to a police barricade and in front of a police detention van. The police's words and actions in the following days have been questionable.

After being overpowered by police personnel, Kapil had chanted "Jai Shri Ram" and said, "hamare desh me aur kisi ki nahi chalegi, sirf Hinduon ki chalegi [only Hindus shall have a say in our country, no one else]," as he was taken into custody by the Delhi Police. Bhim Army chief, Chandrashekhar Azad, was sent to 14 days' judicial custody a day after he led a massive protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act in Old Delhi.

Ministry of Truth 

1984 - As with the names of the other ministries in Oceania, the name Ministry of Truth means the exact opposite of what it says. The Ministry of Truth is where lies are manufactured. Winston Smith, the protagonist, works here, rewriting old news articles to reflect the Party's latest version of reality and throwing the old articles down a "memory hole" where they are incinerated. The Ministry of Truth reflects the Party's belief that power is the only truth and that those with power can alter the "truth" into whatever they choose. 

In India- Winston's job finds relevance in real life in the form of fake news. The Economic Times declared 2019 as the year of Fake News. The menace has chased us into 2020 as well. India has the largest number of social media users in the world across platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, WhatsApp, ShareChat, TikTok, etc. Fake stories, rumours and hate speech spread through social media have been connected to various incidents of mob attacks and lynching in the country. News is almost instantly available and shareable at the tap of a button. Anyone with internet access can develop a blog or can produce a video without fact-checking or an editorial process of any kind. Stories that expose or ridicule conduct, doctrines, or institutions either by direct criticism or more often through irony, parody or caricature try to influence public opinion on a person, a policy, an event or another news story. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of both false and misleading, highly opinionated articles on the web that are passed off as news.

Two Minutes Hate 

1984 - "The horrible thing about the Two Minutes Hate was not that one was obliged to act a part, but, on the contrary, that it was impossible to avoid joining in." The Two Minutes Hate is a ritual observance that is designed to use the collective rage of the people against supposed "enemies of the Party" to strengthen the Party's position among the people. The ritual serves to unify the people in the observance of the ritual. Because Big Brother is proclaimed to be benevolent and good, any enemy is automatically evil and bad. While it is a "Two Minutes Hate" the desired end result is less hatred of Big Brother. Ever noticed how viral outrage regularly rips through social media? It's usually over just as quickly as it comes.

In India- BJP's preference for Hate Speech is increasingly becoming apparent. Even Mahatma Gandhi is not spared. Referring to Gandhi, BJP MP from Karnataka, Anant Kumar Hegde, questioned the freedom movement led by the Father of the Nation and described India's independence struggle as an "adjustment" with the then British rulers. Breaching traditional norms in public utterances is clearly the "new normal" in the BJP with Union Minister Prakash Javdekar labelling Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal a "terrorist." Simultaneously, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stuck to the "tukde-tukde gang (secessionist forces, a term now routinely used for opposition parties by BJP leaders)" narrative in his various public meetings in the run-up to the Delhi Assembly polls.

Doublethink 

1984 - 'Doublethink' is a concept explained in the book as: "The power of holding two contradictory beliefs in one's mind simultaneously and accepting both of them… To tell deliberate lies while genuinely believing in them, to forget any fact that has become inconvenient, and then, when it becomes necessary again, to draw it back from oblivion for just as long as it is needed, to deny the existence of objective reality and all the while to take account of the reality which one denies – all this is indispensably necessary." 

In India - It is not uncommon today for politicians to make promises during election campaigns but not bother to keep these promises once they are elected to power. Recently, a case was filed by an advocate at the state high court, HK Singh, against Narendra Modi and Amit Shah for cheating people by promising them that ₹15 lakh would be credited to each person's bank account if the BJP came to power in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. In her Union Budget 2020 speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that data must have strong credibility to combat the difficulties of real-time monitoring in the Indian economy, adding that the phrase "data is the new oil" has now become a cliché. Sitharaman proposed a policy to increase focus on credible data-driven analysis, under private sectors, building data centre parks throughout the country. Contrasting the finance minister's ambitious claims, the budget documents were found with multiple discrepancies, which the ministry later denied.

Conclusion

In 1946, Observer editor, David Astor, lent George Orwell a remote Scottish farmhouse in which he wrote his new book, Nineteen Eighty-Four. It became one of the most significant novels of the 20th century. So just like Winston, we still live in a constant state of uncertainty. We live in fear of being controlled, we dread surveillance and we are afraid of our dissent being crushed. The circumstances surrounding the writing of Nineteen Eighty-Four make a haunting narrative. The spine-chilling similarities with modern times describe the curtailment of freedom in the real world by politicians and officials - alarmingly, nowhere and never more often than in India.

(Word count- 1974)

Thinking activity : Indian Poetics

Welcome to my Blog,

This blog is part of our study. This Thinking activity is based on Indian Poetics and was assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad sir Department of English MKBU. In this task, we have to Write about various schools like Rasa, Dhvani, Auchitya, Vakrokti, Riti, and alankaar based on our understanding of these concepts. And also Give examples from Gujarati, Hindi, Sanskrit, and English literature.

Indian Poetics

Dr. Dilip Barad Sir Department of English, MKBU Organized the expert Lecture Of Dr. Vinod Joshi's Lecture to teach us Indian aesthetics. He is a  Gujarati writer, Poet, Critic, and professor.

Prof. Vinod Joshi was invited to the session for the week. From 5 January to 13 January, He talks about the Different About Schools of Indian Poetics.

• Rasa
• Riti
• Vakrokti   
• Dhvani
• Auchitya
• Alankara

First of all, we have to understand the concept of Indian Poetics.

What is Indian Poetics?

Indian Poetics has Developed in India a thousand years ago. Indian poetics refers to the study of the artistic and literary traditions of the Indian subcontinent, including the theories and practices of poetry, drama, and literary criticism. It encompasses a rich and diverse tradition that dates back thousands of years, encompassing Sanskrit, Prakrit, and regional language literature, as well as the critical discourse surrounding these works.

One of the central texts of Indian poetics is the "Natyashastra," a Sanskrit treatise on drama and aesthetics that dates back to the 2nd century BCE. This text outlines the principles of poetics and lays down the foundations of Indian dramatic theory, including the use of characterization, plot, song, and dance.

Indian poetics is also characterized by the "Rasa" theory, which holds that poetry and drama can evoke a range of emotional responses or "flavors" in the reader or viewer. These emotions, or "rasas," include feelings of love, wonder, heroism, and disgust, among others. Indian poetics is a rich and multifaceted tradition that has deeply influenced the development of literature and the arts in the Indian subcontinent and continues to shape the understanding and appreciation of these works to this day.

The Six Schools:-

1. Rasa - Bharat
2. Alamkara - Bhamaha
3. Riti - Vamana
4. Dhvani - Anandvardhan
5. Vakrokti - Kuntaka
6. Auchitya - Kemendra

1. Rasa:-

Bharat muni believes that the dramatic form of aesthetic experience is the most perfect fruition of aesthetic activity because drama is the synthesis of all arts According to Abhinav Gupta who was one of the famous critics of Natyashastra, Rasa is the simplest and most we bewildering expression in the Sanskrit language. Anyone can experience it but needs help to define it precisely.

According to Bharat muni the realization of Rasa results from the Union of Vibhavas, Anubhavas, and Vyabhikaribhavas. When Sthaibhavas unite with others, the three Bhavas, one attains the quality of Rasa.

Nine Rasas by Bharat muni in his Natyashastra.

Sthayibhav                              Rasa

1. શમ/નિર્વેદ(peace)               1. શાંત રસ (peace)

2. ભય (Fear)                        2. ભયાનક રસ (Terror)

3. હાસ (Mirth)                       3. હાસ્ય રસ (Comic, Laughter)

4. વિસ્મય઼(Astonishment)        4. અદ્ભુત રસ(Wonder, Marvellous) 

5. જુગુપ્સા(Disgust)                 5. બિભત્સ રસ(Odious) 

6. ક્રોધ (Anger)                      6. રૌદ્ર રસ(Rage)

7. ઉત્સાહ(Energy)                   7. વિર રસ(Heroic)

8. શોક(Sorrow)                     8. કરુણ રસ(Compassion,Pathos)

9. રતિ(Love)                         9. શૃંગાર રસ(Erotic)

श्रृंगारकरूणवीररौद्रहास्यभयानका।

बीभत्साद्भूतशांतश्च नवनाट्येरसास्मृता।।

 - भरतः नाट्यशास्त्र

The concept of rasa is important in Indian aesthetics because it allows artists to create works that evoke specific emotional responses from their audience. By using different techniques such as language, imagery, and symbolism, artists can manipulate the emotions of their audience and create a powerful and memorable experience.

2. Alamkara - Bhamaha

Alamkara is a Sanskrit word that means "ornament" or "embellishment". In Indian literary theory, ahamkara refers to the use of figures of speech or literary devices that add beauty, emotional depth, and meaning to a text.

Bhamaha was an Indian literary critic and poet who lived around the 7th or 8th century CE. He is known for his influential work on poetics called the Kavyalankara, which is one of the earliest Sanskrit treatises on the subject. Bhamaha focused primarily on the concept of alamkara, and his work helped to establish it as a central element of Indian poetics. He identified several types of alamkaras, including upama (metaphor), rupaka (simile), utpreksa (hyperbole), and arthantaranyasa (suggestion of hidden meaning). Bhamaha also emphasized the importance of using alamkaras judiciously and with restraint, so as not to overwhelm the text or distract from its meaning.

The categories of alamkara have been classified by different poetician into different kind. Rudrata divides it into two types those based on phonetic form its called sabdalamkara and those who based on meaning its called Arthalamkara.

Shabdalamkara :-  Shabda + Alamkara

                            The meaning of sound.

Arthalamkara :- Artha + Alamkara

                        The meaning of words & thoughts.

Bhoja also divided it into seven parts,

1. Sadrasya 

2. Virodha 

3. Srnkhalabadha 

4. TarkaNyaya 

5. Lokanyaya 

6. Kavyanyaya and 

7. Gudharthapratiti. 

Mamata also divided alamkara into seven types:

1. Upama 

2. Rupaka 

3. AprastutaPrasnsa 

4. Dipaka 

5. Vyatiraeka 

6. Virodha and 

7. Samuccaya.

Here are some examples of Alamkara:

1. દમયંતીનું મુખ ચંદ્ર જેવું સુંદર છે.

2. House like Taj Mahal.

3. Riti - Vamana

Riti is a concept in Indian poetics that refers to the style of language and the way it is used in a literary work. It is concerned with the form and structure of language rather than the content. Vamana was a famous Sanskrit poet who contributed significantly to the development of riti as a poetic style.

Vamana believed that the style of language used in a literary work should be appropriate to the subject matter and the intended audience. He believed that the use of different types of language, such as high or low, formal or informal, should be determined by the context of the work.

Vamana also emphasized the importance of clarity and coherence in poetic language. He believed that a poet should strive to convey their message in a clear and straightforward manner, without resorting to obscure or convoluted language. Vamana's approach to riti was characterized by a focus on precision and appropriateness of language, as well as the importance of clarity and coherence in poetic expression.

'रीतिरात्मा  काव्यस्य ; विशिष्टापदरचना रीति: |'

4. Auchitya - Kshemendra

Kshemendra was a famous Sanskrit poet and critic who wrote the treatise "Kavyaprakasha," which is considered one of the most authoritative works on Sanskrit poetics. In the Kavyaprakasha, Kemendra explains the concept of Auchitya in detail and provides several examples to illustrate the importance of appropriateness in poetry.

According to Kshemendra, Auchitya is the quality that makes poetry pleasing to the reader or listener. It is the proper use of words, phrases, and figures of speech in the appropriate context. The poet must consider the subject matter, audience, and purpose of the poem when choosing the words and expressions to use.

One example of Auchitya in poetry is the use of similes and metaphors. These figures of speech should be appropriate to the context and should enhance the meaning of the poem. For example, in the Ramayana, the poet Valmiki uses the simile of a swan separating milk from water to describe the separation of good and evil in the character of Ravana.

Another example of Auchitya is the use of language that is appropriate to the audience. The language used in a poem for children would be different from the language used in a poem for scholars. The poet must consider the education, culture, and language of the intended audience when choosing the words and expressions to use.

A Sanskrit shloka that exemplifies Auchitya is:

यथा राजा तथा प्रजा, यथा प्रजा तथा राज |

यथा लोहमयः शृङ्गः, तथा पापस्य शृङ्गम् ||

5. Vakrokti - Kuntaka

 Vakrokti is the most misunderstood and misinterpretation one. It means striking ness in word and the meaning of Vakrokti is:-

Vakrokti:-  Vakra  +  Ukti

Vakra:- Crooked indirect or unique.

Ukti:- Poetic expression or speech

Vakrokti is a concept in Indian poetics that refers to indirect or oblique speech, where the intended meaning is not immediately apparent and requires the reader or listener to make an effort to understand it. Kuntaka was an Indian poet and literary critic who lived in the 9th century and is best known for his work on the theory of poetry, the Vakrokti.

Kuntaka's concept of Vakrokti emphasizes the importance of suggesting meanings indirectly, rather than stating them directly. He believed that the use of figurative languages, such as metaphors, similes, and allusions, could add depth and complexity to a poem, and create a more nuanced and layered meaning. Kuntaka also believed that the use of Vakrokti could create a sense of mystery and intrigue, and keep the reader engaged and interested.

6. Dhvani - Anandvardhan

Dhvani is a concept in Indian poetics that refers to the suggestive power of language. It was first introduced and developed by Anandavardhana in his work, Dhvanyaloka. According to Anandavardhana, the primary function of poetry is to evoke emotions in the reader or listener through the suggestive power of language.

Anandavardhana argued that the meaning of a poem is not limited to its literal or surface level meaning, but extends to the emotional and suggestive meaning that is implied or suggested by the words and their arrangement. This is known as the dhvani or the suggestive power of the poem.

Anandavardhana also distinguished between two types of dhvani: the vyangya or implied meaning, and the rasa or emotional resonance. The vyangya refers to the implied meaning of the poem, while the rasa refers to the emotional response that is evoked in the reader or listener.

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Thinking activity - Virginia Woolf’s Orlando - A Biography

Welcome to my Blog,

This blog is part of our study. This Thinking activity is based on Virginia Woolf’s Orlando - A Biography was assigned by Megha ma'am Department of English MKBU. In this task, we have to answer some questions mentioned in this blog. https://vaidehi09.blogspot.com/2022/01/movie-screening-vita-and-virginia-by.html and write our own views on Orlando and Vita and Virginia movies in this blog.

Introduction of Writer:

Virginia Woolf

Also Known as - Adeline Virginia Woolf/Stephen

Born - 25 January 1882

Death - 28 March 1941 (aged 59)

Occupation/Known as - Novelist, essayist, publisher, critic

Virginia Woolf (1882-1941) was an English writer and one of the foremost modernist writers of the 20th century. She was known for her experimental style, which often explored themes of gender, sexuality, identity, and mental health. Woolf is best known for her novels, including "Mrs. Dalloway," "To the Lighthouse," and "Orlando," as well as her non-fiction works, such as "A Room of One's Own."

Woolf was a member of the influential Bloomsbury Group, a circle of writers, artists, and intellectuals who were known for their bohemian lifestyles and unconventional ideas. Woolf's work is characterized by its stream-of-consciousness narrative style, its emphasis on the interior lives of her characters, and its innovative approach to time and space.

Throughout her life, Woolf struggled with mental health issues, including depression and bipolar disorder. She ultimately died by suicide in 1941, at the age of 59. Despite her struggles, Woolf remains an important figure in modernist literature and her work continues to be studied and celebrated today.

Notable Works -  

• Mrs. Dalloway (1925)
• To the Lighthouse (1927)
• The Voyage Out (1915)
• Jacob's Room (1922)
• Orlando (1928)
• The Waves (1931)
• Night and Day (1919)

[1] In this First question, we have to write some answers to the questions mentioned in the attached blog. 

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?

It is widely known that Virginia Woolf's novel "Orlando" was inspired by her romantic relationship with Vita Sackville-West, and many aspects of the novel's plot and characters are thought to be based on their personal experiences. In particular, the character of Orlando is believed to be a composite of Woolf and Sackville-West, with elements of both writers' personalities and lives.

However, "Orlando" is not simply a retelling of Woolf and Sackville-West's love affair. The novel explores a range of themes and issues beyond their relationship, including gender identity, time, history, and literature. The book is a meditation on the nature of identity itself, as Orlando changes gender and experiences life in different historical periods while retaining a sense of continuity and selfhood throughout.

At its core, "Orlando" is a celebration of the power of the imagination and the creative spirit, as embodied by Orlando's artistic pursuits and Woolf's own literary experimentation. The book is a playful and experimental exploration of the nature of biography and history, challenging the reader's assumptions about the stability of identity and the fixity of historical narratives.

Overall, while "Orlando" may have been influenced by Woolf and Sackville-West's relationship, the novel is a rich and complex work that explores a range of themes and issues beyond their personal lives.

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

That being said, it is widely known that both Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West were queer women who lived in a time when same-sex relationships were not widely accepted or understood. Both writers explored themes of gender and sexuality in their work, and their personal lives undoubtedly influenced their creative output.

However, it is important to remember that identity is a complex and multifaceted concept, and there is no one "correct" way to experience or express one's sense of self. It is not productive or helpful to try to label or categorize individuals based on their sexuality or gender identity.

Ultimately, what is most important is that people are able to live authentically and express themselves in ways that feel true to who they are. As a society, we should strive to create a culture of acceptance and inclusivity, where everyone is able to live without fear of discrimination or prejudice.

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

Throughout history, society's views on women and identity have been shaped by a variety of cultural, social, and political factors. In many societies, women have been relegated to traditional gender roles and expected to conform to certain expectations about their behavior, appearance, and life choices.

For many years, women were denied access to education and opportunities for personal and professional development, which limited their ability to express themselves and pursue their goals. Women were often seen as secondary to men, and their identities were defined in relation to their roles as wives, mothers, and caretakers.

Thankfully, in recent years, there has been progressing in terms of gender equality and women's rights. Women have gained greater access to education, employment, and political representation, and there is a growing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion in all aspects of society.

However, despite this progress, there is still a long way to go before women's identities are fully valued and respected in all contexts. Women continue to face discrimination and marginalization based on their gender, race, ethnicity, and other factors, and there is a need for ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and women's empowerment.

What can we do for changing the rule for that type of society peoples?

Gender roles at home can and should be blurred. We should be teaching all our children to cook, clean, do laundry and fix things around the house – essential life skills for any adult. We should also be aware of cultural inconsistencies in how we treat girls and boys and the messages we are sending our daughters. We need to challenge cultural expectations that women should be responsible for things that men are not. Women are equally capable as men to be successful and happy. Our childhood upbringing and culture should reflect that.

Indian's Views on women and identity

More than half a century ago, India was one of the first countries in the world to elect a woman as prime minister, and the country currently has several highly influential women politicians, including Sonia Gandhi, the head of one of the major national parties. Today, most Indians say that “women and men make equally good political leaders,” and more than one-in-ten feel that women generally make better political leaders than men, according to a recent Pew Research Center survey of nearly 30,000 adults throughout India.

Most Indians (63%) see sons – not daughters – as being primarily responsible for parents’ last rites and burial rituals. Religious funeral practices for loved ones are widely seen as very important, and at least according to Hindu tradition, sons must perform last rites for a parent to ensure freedom for the soul in the afterlife. Recently, women – including actress Mandira Bedi and the daughters of India’s former Chief of Defense Staff – have publicly challenged these norms by lighting family members’ funeral pyres.

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

Gender identity refers to a person's internal sense of their own gender. It is a deeply personal and subjective experience that can differ from the sex assigned at birth, and may not fit into traditional binary categories of male or female.It is also important to recognize the diversity of gender identities and expressions that exist within society, and to promote inclusivity and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity. This includes creating safe and supportive spaces for transgender and non-binary individuals and working to address the social and systemic barriers that can prevent them from accessing resources and opportunities.

Gender is a composite of socially constructed roles, behaviors, activities and/or attributes that a given society may consider appropriate for people of an assigned sex. Gender identity, like gender, refers to an individual’s personal sense of being female, male, both, or anywhere along the gender spectrum. Gender identity may or may not correspond to the sex assumed or assigned at birth.

The following is a list of collectively used gender identities and expressions:

Agender: A person who identifies with this term will often consider themselves as not subscribing to any gender identity.

Cisgender: This term is commonly used to refer to people who identify exclusively with the gender assigned at birth.

Demigender: This is a term used to describe a person who feels a connection and/or has an internal leaning toward a particular gender. 

Gender Questioning: Gender questioning describes someone who is questioning all or parts of their gender identity or expression and does not wish to identify themselves with a specific gender identity.

Intergender: Intergender describes a gender identity that is a mix of both masculine and feminine identities.

Multi-Gender: Multi-gender describes people who hold more than one gender identity.

Transgender/Trans: Transgender is used to describing any person who has a gender identity that is different from the gender they were assigned at birth.

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

One notable aspect of the film's direction is its use of visual symbolism and metaphor. The film's surreal and dreamlike visuals are used to convey the fluidity of time and space, as well as the shifting nature of identity. For example, the use of mirrors and reflections throughout the film highlights the idea of duality and the reflection of one's inner self.

Another important element of the film's direction is its use of space and setting. The film is set in various historical periods, including Elizabethan England, the Victorian era, and the present day, and each period is depicted with great attention to detail and historical accuracy. The use of space and setting in the film is also used to convey the changing social and cultural attitudes towards gender and identity over time.

Overall, the direction of "Orlando" is marked by its bold and unconventional approach to storytelling, which is conveyed through its use of visual symbolism, metaphor, and attention to historical detail. The film's exploration of gender and identity remains relevant and thought-provoking, even decades after its initial release.

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

For the role of Vita, an actress with a strong screen presence and charisma would be needed. Some actresses who could potentially play this role include:

1. Priyanka Chopra Jonas
2. Kangana Ranaut

For the role of Virginia, an actress who can convey emotional depth and nuance would be required. Some actresses who could potentially play this role include:

1. Kareena Kapoor Khan
2. Bhumi Pednekar

[2] Compulsory Question: Write your views on the movie Orlando. What differences and similarities have you noticed in the movie Vita and Virginia and Orlando?

Orlando

Directed by - Sally Potter

Based on - Orlando: A Biography by Virginia Woolf

Protagonist/Main Character - Tilda Swinton as Orlando

"Orlando" is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film directed by Sally Potter, based on the novel by Virginia Woolf. The film tells the story of a young nobleman named Orlando who, in the Elizabethan era, is granted immortality by Queen Elizabeth I and experiences a journey of self-discovery through different eras of English history, transforming into a woman along the way.

One of the strengths of the film is its exploration of gender identity and fluidity, which was quite progressive for its time. Tilda Swinton gives an outstanding performance as Orlando, conveying the character's transformation and evolution over several centuries with subtlety and grace. The film's production design, costumes, and music also contribute to its overall beauty and atmosphere.

However, some viewers may find the film's pacing slow and its themes difficult to follow. Additionally, the film's commentary on class and imperialism may feel somewhat dated and overly simplistic to contemporary audiences. "Orlando" is a visually stunning and thematically complex film that is worth watching for its exploration of gender identity and the experience of being human across different eras of history.

What differences and similarities have you noticed in the movie Vita and Virginia 2018 and Orlando?

"Vita and Virginia" (2018) and "Orlando" (1992) are both based on literary works by Virginia Woolf and explore themes of gender identity and sexuality, as well as the lives of women in different historical eras. However, there are also some differences between the two films.

One major difference is in their focus and narrative structure. "Orlando" is centered around the character of Orlando and his/her journey through different eras of English history, while "Vita and Virginia" is primarily focused on the relationship between Virginia Woolf and the writer Vita Sackville-West, which was the inspiration for Woolf's novel "Orlando."

Another difference is in their visual style. "Orlando" is a highly stylized and visually stunning film that incorporates elements of period drama and magical realism. "Vita and Virginia," on the other hand, is a more naturalistic and intimate film that relies on the performances of its two lead actors, Elizabeth Debicki and Gemma Arterton, to convey the complexity of the relationship between Woolf and Sackville-West.

However, both films share a common interest in exploring the lives and experiences of women in different historical contexts, as well as the fluidity of gender and sexuality. Both films also feature strong female characters who challenge societal norms and expectations, and who experience personal and artistic growth through their relationships with other women.

While there are some differences between "Vita and Virginia" and "Orlando," both films offer compelling and thought-provoking explorations of Virginia Woolf's ideas and legacy, as well as the lives and experiences of women throughout history.

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