- Lyricist
- Vairamuthu
- Singers
- Rajeshwari, K. J. Jesudass
- Music director
- Ilayaraja
- Movie name
- Kann Sivanthaal Mann Sivakkum
- Movie release year
- 1983
- Lyrics added on
- 15 Oct 2020
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This powerful lyric addresses an oppressed woman living in poverty, acknowledging both her inherent dignity ('a sculpture in a slum') and her immense suffering. It exposes the apathy of the wealthy elite who view the poor as disposable, warning her that her oppressors will never be her saviors. Ultimately, the lines serve as a revolutionary rallying cry, advising her to reject false promises and seek true freedom by uniting with the class that shares her struggle.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uvamanai)
“Saerikkul irukkum sirppam”
The lyricist uses poignant metaphors like 'sirppam' (sculpture) and 'kanneer' (tears) to represent the woman's beauty, endurance, and deep sorrow amidst poverty.
Contrast / Antithesis
“Aanaal panakkaaran maarbukku mann neer”
Contrasts the priceless value of human suffering with how callously the wealthy view the poor as 'mann neer' (dirty water).
Iyaibu (End Rhyme)
“Sariyaana sorkkaththai thaedu / Unnai viduvikkum varkkaththai naadu”
The couplet ends with rhyming imperative verbs 'thaedu' (search) and 'naadu' (seek), creating an emphatic and encouraging rhythm.
Did you know?
Trivia
'Kann Sivanthaal Mann Sivakkum' (1983) was directed by Sreedhar Rajan and based on Indira Parthasarathy's acclaimed novel 'Kruthiyappunal', which deals with the brutal Kilvenmani massacre and landless farmers' struggles. The soundtrack was composed by Maestro Ilaiyaraaja, and the film won the National Film Award for Best First Film of a Director.
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