- Lyricist
- Muthulingam
- Singer
- S. P. Balasubrahmanyam
- Music director
- Chandrabose
- Movie name
- Karaiyai Thodatha Alaigal
- Movie release year
- 1985
- Lyrics added on
- 23 Mar 2022
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This song is a poignant, philosophical reflection on heartbreak, lost opportunities, and the relentless passage of time. The protagonist laments that just when he was about to claim his love—symbolized by plucking a flower—unforeseen circumstances intervened, and someone else walked away with his happiness. He compares his tragic delay to impossible scenarios, such as trying to row a boat in a dry river or waiting for ocean waves to completely stop before taking a dip. Through these vivid metaphors, lyricist Muthulingam emphasizes the dangers of hesitation and missed chances. The song conveys a universal truth: time waits for no one, and failing to act at the crucial moment leaves a person with nothing but regret and grief.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uvamai)
“Thoduththa poovai aduththa manithan eduththu povathai paarththukkadaa”
The flower represents the protagonist's love interest or happiness, which was taken away by another before he could claim it.
Rhetorical Question (Vinaa Ani)
“Nadhigal kaainthapin padakotta mudiyumaa”
Asking questions that imply an obvious negative answer to emphasize the impossibility of reclaiming lost time or opportunity.
Proverbial Metaphor / Idiom
“Alaigal ointha pin kadal neeril kulikkave ennum manithargal innaattil kodiyae”
Uses the famous Tamil proverb concept of waiting for ocean waves to stop before bathing, symbolizing foolish procrastination.
Did you know?
Trivia
Karaiyai Thodatha Alaigal (1985) featured music by Chandrabose, a popular composer of the 1980s Tamil film industry known for his folk-tinged melodies and expressive ballads. Sung by S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, this track stands out for its deep philosophical lyrics penned by Muthulingam.
Keep listening
Songs with a similar feeling
From the same album
More songs from Karaiyai Thodatha Alaigal
View albumSpot an issue?
Help us improve the lyrics or English translation.