- Lyricist
- Vaali
- Singer
- P. Susheela
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Poruthathu Podhum
- Movie release year
- 1989
- Lyrics added on
- 22 Aug 2020
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
Poruthathu Podhum is an inspiring maternal lullaby penned by lyricist Vaali for the 1989 Tamil film of the same name. Unlike conventional lullabies meant solely for sleep, this song serves as a powerful call to action and character building. The mother addresses her child with profound affection, comparing him to pure flower honey and a noble deer that values honor above life itself, echoing traditional Tamil cultural values regarding self-respect (Thanmaanam). As she rocks her child, she reminds him of her pain and labor in raising him, while preparing him for the harsh realities of the world. She advises him that while good people inevitably face trials, a true warrior must know when patience ends and rise fearlessly against wickedness and injustice. Through this song, she envisions a victorious spring-like future for her son, expressing that her ultimate happiness depends on his living an honorable and courageous life.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uvamaani)
“Aavaaram poovin senthaenae”
The child is directly addressed as 'Aavaaram poovin senthaenae' (the red honey of the Aavaaram flower), symbolizing pure innocence, sweet nature, and preciousness.
Cultural Allusion & Analogy
“Pon maanin jaadhi ennaalum neeyum”
Compares the son's nature to a deer that dies if it loses its pride, referencing traditional Sangam Tamil poetic concepts where honor (Maanam) is valued more than life.
Ethirai (Second-letter Rhyme)
“Polladha seyalai kandu / Poruthathu podhum endru”
The second letters of 'Polladha' and 'Poruthathu' feature the rhyme 'r/l' sound combination, providing rhythmic momentum suited for rising up in anger.
Personification
“Mullai vaikkum boomiyilae”
The world/earth is personified as an adversary actively placing thorns along the path of progress.
Did you know?
Trivia
The song's core phrase 'Poruthathu Podhum' (Enough of patience) serves as the title of the 1989 film itself, underscoring the story's central theme of standing up against oppression. Lyricist Vaali masterfully transformed a standard 'Thaalattu' (lullaby) framework into a motivational anthem of self-respect and bravery.
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