Home »
Poems » T Wignesan »
Further Observations In the Thiruk-Kural On Those Who Would Be King: K389 and K390 Without Comment
Further Observations In the Thiruk-Kural On Those Who Would Be King: K389 and K390 Without Comment
Further observations in the THIRUK-KURAL on those* who would be King: K389 and K390 WITHOUT COMMENT
[* such as short-term presidents, chief and prime ministers, governors, dictators and the like]
K389: chevikaippach chotporukkum panpudai veenthan
kavikaikkiilth thangkum ulakam
[chevi = ear; kaippu = bitterness; kavikai = umbrella]
The king of worth, who can words bitter to his ear endure,
Beneath the shadow of his power the world abides secure. (Transl. G.U. Pope)
The whole world will dwell under the umbrella of the king, who can bear words that embitter the ear. (Transl. Drew & Lazarus)
When scathing words assail to no avail the ear of a nobly forbearing sovereign, the world will find refuge under his panoply. (Transl. T. Wignesan)
[Note: NO COMMENT]
K390: kodaiali chengkOl kudiOmbal naankum
udaiyaanaam veentharkku oli
Gifts, grace, right sceptre, care of people's weal;
These four a light of dreaded kings reveal. (Transl. G.U. Pope)
He is the light of kings who has these four things, beneficence, benevolence, rectitude, and care for his people. (Transl. Drew & Lazarus)
Liberal giving, kindness, just rule, protection of subjects -- the king who enshrines these attributes, yes, shines forth a (celestial) luminary. (Transl. T. Wignesan)
[Note: NO COMMENT]
© T. Wignesan - Paris, 2017
Copyright © T Wignesan | Year Posted 2017
Post Comments
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem.
Please
Login
to post a comment