- Lyricist
- Vaali
- Singer
- S. P. Shailaja
- Music director
- Amal Dev
- Movie name
- Poove Ilam Poove
- Movie release year
- 2015
- Lyrics added on
- 7 Feb 2021
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This playful song captures the vibrant romantic banter of a young rural woman expressing her deep longing and impatience to marry her beloved suitor ('maama'). She compares her delicate feelings and restless youth to a butterfly that might fly away if not caught, a sensitive touch-me-not plant, and a fish leaping on a hook. Through witty taunts, she playfully challenges his masculine pride—asking why a brave youth who tames wild Jallikattu bulls hesitates when it comes to expressing love.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor / Simile (Uvamai)
“Oru pattamboochi enna vitta / Parandhu vidum”
Compares the delicate, fleeting, and sensitive nature of youth and love to a butterfly that will fly away if not held close.
Monai (Initial Rhyme / Alliteration)
“Vandhu varamalum pattum padamalum”
The repetition of initial consonant sounds ('V' in Vandhu/varamalum, 'P' in pattum/padamalum) creates a rhythmic, musical flow.
Cultural Allusion
“Jalli kaalaingalai valachu... Yeri adikkugura vayasu”
References Jallikattu (the traditional Tamil bull-taming sport) to symbolize youthful bravery and rural masculinity.
Hyperbole / Teasing Idiom
“Unakku porakkanum aasa / Illa edhukku valakkanum meesa”
A humorous hyperbole questioning the point of growing a mustache if a man lacks the courage to pursue romantic desire.
Did you know?
Trivia
'Oru Pattamboochi' from Poove Ilam Poove features a composition by Amal Dev, with lyrics written by the legendary poet Vaali. Sung energetically by S. P. Shailaja, the song showcases Vaali's trademark style of blending traditional rural metaphors with lively folk-infused colloquial teasing.
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