Lonjanas Ke Tattva Siddhanta Adhar Par Nirla Kavya Ka Adhyayan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Lonjanas ke Tattva Siddhanta Adhar par Nirla Kavya ka Adhyayan" (A Study of Nirala's Poetry based on Longinus's Theory of the Sublime) by Praveshkumar Sinh, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Lonjanas ke Tattva Siddhanta Adhar par Nirla Kavya ka Adhyayan (A Study of Nirala's Poetry based on Longinus's Theory of the Sublime)

Author: Praveshkumar Sinh

Publisher: Allahabad University

Core Thesis: The research work aims to analyze the poetry of the renowned Hindi poet Suryakant Tripathi 'Nirala' through the lens of the classical Western literary concept of the Sublime, as articulated by the ancient Greek theorist Longinus in his treatise "On the Sublime" (Peripsychos). The study posits that Nirala's poetry, with its powerful themes, emotional depth, and stylistic innovations, effectively embodies the principles of the Sublime.

Key Concepts Explored:

• The Sublime (Udattata):

  • The book begins by defining the concept of the Sublime. It traces the etymology of the Sanskrit word "Udatt" from the root "da" (to give) with prefixes "ut" (upward) and "a" (all-encompassing), suggesting it means a giving that elevates in all directions.
  • The common meaning includes being compassionate, generous, noble, excellent, strong, and capable.
  • The English equivalent, "Sublime," is defined as relating to the highest aspects of human activity and thought, embodying truth and subjects of greatness. It also refers to individuals of high character, noble lineage, or spiritual eminence, and to objects in nature or art that overwhelm the mind with their grandeur and power.
  • The research emphasizes that the Sublime relates to all human activities, conduct, thought, and forms of nature that are extraordinary and elevate the mind.

• Longinus and "On the Sublime":

  • Longinus is identified as the primary Western theorist on the Sublime, and his work "Peripsychos" (On the Sublime) is central to the study.
  • The text notes that "Peripsychos," originally in Greek, was rediscovered and published in 1954.
  • Longinus's treatise, written as a letter to a Roman youth named Postumius Terentianus, critiques earlier discussions of the Sublime, particularly by Caecilius, for lacking definition, failing to explain how to achieve the Sublime, neglecting key elements like passion, and overusing examples.
  • Longinus's seminal contribution was shifting the primary aim of literature from merely instructing, delighting, or persuading to evoking transport or ecstasy (charamollas), leaving the audience spellbound.
  • He believed that literature should not be confined to logic but should overwhelm the reader through imagination and power.
  • Longinus identified five sources of the Sublime:
    1. The Power of Forming Grand Conceptions: The ability to conceive great ideas and thoughts.
    2. Vehement and Inspired Passion: Intensity of emotion and inspired fervor.
    3. Skillful Use of Figures of Speech (Alankara): Appropriate and effective use of rhetorical devices.
    4. Noble Diction (Utkrisht Bhasha): Elevated and powerful language.
    5. Dignified Composition and Arrangement (Garisht Rachana Vidhan): Harmonious and grand structure.
  • The first two are considered intrinsic (antarang) elements, related to innate genius and soul, while the last three are extrinsic (bahirang), related to art and craft. Longinus also discussed elements contrary (virodhi) to the Sublime.

• Nirala's Poetic Journey:

  • The study traces the evolution of Nirala's poetry, starting with his early works like "Anamika" (1923) and "Parimal" (1929).
  • "Anamika" is seen as a departure from traditional poetic styles, showcasing linguistic creativity.
  • "Parimal" further explores themes and develops a new poetic sensibility, including the innovative use of free verse in poems like "Juhhi ki Kali."
  • "Gitika" (1936) marks an attempt to harmonize poetry with music, creating a rich emotional experience.
  • Later works like "Anamika" (Second Edition), "Ram ki Shakti Puja," "Saroj-Smriti," "Tulsidas," "Kukurmutta," "Anima," "Bela," and "Naye Patte" are analyzed for their contribution to Nirala's mature poetic style, which often blended traditional and modern elements, classical grandeur with colloquial realism, and profound philosophical insights with sharp social critique.
  • The study highlights Nirala's ability to connect with the common people and express their struggles, as seen in poems like "Kukurmutta," where he uses everyday language and biting satire.
  • Nirala's later poetry often reflects his spiritual inclinations and engagement with existential questions.

• Applying Longinus's Five Sources to Nirala's Poetry:

  • The core of the research involves applying Longinus's five criteria to analyze specific poems by Nirala.
  • Grand Conceptions: Nirala's poetry is shown to possess "great conceptions" through his portrayal of nationalistic fervor, philosophical depth, profound human emotions, and the elevation of societal issues. His sympathetic portrayal of the downtrodden, his critique of social injustices, and his spiritual explorations are cited as examples. Poems like "Ram ki Shakti Puja" and "Tulsidas" are highlighted for their grand themes and heroic scope.
  • Passionate and Inspired Emotion: Nirala's poetry is characterized by intense emotions, whether it be his revolutionary zeal in "Badal Rag," his personal grief in "Saroj-Smriti," his spiritual yearning in his later works, or the dramatic intensity in "Ram ki Shakti Puja." His use of powerful imagery and vivid language conveys a palpable sense of passion.
  • Skillful Use of Figures of Speech: The study analyzes Nirala's masterful use of various figures of speech, including metaphors, similes, personification, repetition, and rhetorical questions. Poems like "Sandhya Sundari" (personification of evening), "Ram ki Shakti Puja" (rich imagery and metaphors), and "Kukurmutta" (ironic use of language) are examined for their masterful application of these devices.
  • Noble Diction: Nirala's language is praised for its elevated quality, its ability to evoke grandeur, and its vast vocabulary, drawing from Sanskrit, colloquial Hindi, and even Urdu. His careful word selection and powerful phrasing contribute to the Sublime effect.
  • Dignified Composition: Nirala's poems are noted for their well-structured composition, whether it be the epic sweep of "Ram ki Shakti Puja," the lyrical flow of "Gitika," or the free verse experiments that still maintain a sense of order and purpose. His innovative use of meter and rhythm is also discussed.

Methodology and Structure: The dissertation is divided into four chapters:

• Chapter 1: Critically examines the nature of the Sublime and the views of Western scholars, with a particular focus on Longinus's theory.
• Chapter 2: Presents the creative development of Nirala's poetry chronologically, analyzing key collections and poems.
• Chapter 3: Critically evaluates Nirala's poetry based on the five dimensions of Longinus's Sublime theory.
• Chapter 4: Serves as a conclusion, summarizing the findings of the previous chapters.

Significance of the Study: This research is presented as a novel attempt to analyze Nirala's poetry through the framework of Longinus's theory of the Sublime, providing a unique perspective on his literary contributions. It aims to demonstrate how Nirala, a poet of immense stature and diverse output, aligns with classical concepts of literary excellence that transcend cultural boundaries. The study underscores Nirala's mastery in evoking profound emotional responses and intellectual stimulation in his readers, a hallmark of the Sublime.