- Lyricist
- M. Karunanidhi
- Singer
- K. B. Sundarambal
- Music director
- R. Sudharsanam
- Movie name
- Poompuhar
- Movie release year
- 1964
- Lyrics added on
- 28 Jan 2020
Lyrics & meaning
Beyond the translation
Overall song meaning
This philosophical song from the movie Poompuhar emphasizes moral principles, foresight, and ethical living grounded in classic Tamil literature like Thirukkural. It uses the metaphor of a boat navigating treacherous waters to symbolize human life, warning against recklessness during youth and advocating for prudence and righteous guidance. The lyricist highlights that living without moral guardrails or foresight leads to aimless drifting, much like a boat without oars pushed by chaotic waves. Ultimately, it serves as a powerful call to virtue, wisdom, and moral accountability.
Writing craft
Poetic devices
Metaphor (Uruvagam)
“Vaazhkkai enum odam”
'Vaazhkkai enum odam' directly equates human life to a boat navigating open waters.
Monai (Alliteration)
“Vaazhkkai enum odam / Vazhangugindra paadam”
Repetition of the initial sound 'V' in 'Vaazhkkai' and 'Vazhangugindra'.
Simile / Analogy (Uvamai)
“Thuduppugal illaa padagu... Theemaiyai thaduppavar illaa vaazhvum”
Compares a life lacking moral restraint to an oarless boat helpless against ocean waves.
Did you know?
Trivia
Poompuhar (1964) is an epic film adaptation of Silappathikaram, written by former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu M. Karunanidhi, known for his masterful command over classical Tamil literature and rhetoric.
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