The Complete Works of Rabindranath Tagore
Tagore's literary reputation is disproportionately influenced very much by regard for his poetry; however, he also wrote novels, essays, short stories, travelogues, dramas, and thousands of songs. The poems of Rabindranath Tagore are among the most haunting and tender in Indian and in world literature, expressing a profound and passionate human yearning.
His ceaselessly inventive works deal with such subjects as the interplay between God and the world, the eternal and transient, and with the paradox of an endlessly changing universe that is in tune with unchanging harmonies. Poems such as 'Earth' and 'In the Eyes of a Peacock' present a picture of natural processes unaffected by human concerns, while others, as in 'Recovery 14', convey the poet's bewilderment about his place in the world.
Tagore introduced new prose and verse forms and the use of colloquial language into Bengali literature, thereby freeing it from traditional models based on classical Sanskrit.
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About the Author
Rabindranath Tagore, often referred to as Gurudev, was a polymath and a towering figure in Indian literature, music, and art. Born on May 7, 1861, in Calcutta (now Kolkata), India, he belonged to a prominent Bengali family and was the youngest son of Debendranath Tagore, a leader of the Brahmo Samaj, a reformist Hindu movement.
Tagore's literary career spanned over six decades, during which he wrote poetry, novels, short stories, essays, plays, and songs. He is perhaps best known for composing the lyrics and music for "Jana Gana Mana," the national anthem of India, and "Amar Shonar Bangla," the national anthem of Bangladesh. Additionally, he was the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for his collection of poems titled "Gitanjali" (Song Offerings).
Tagore's writing often explored themes of love, nature, spirituality, humanism, and the interconnectedness of all beings. His works reflect his deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural world and his concern for social justice and harmony. Some of his notable literary works include the novels "Gora" and "Ghare-Baire" (The Home and the World), as well as his short story collections such as "Galpaguchchha" (The Home-Coming).
Apart from his literary pursuits, Tagore was a prolific painter and composer. He founded Santiniketan, an experimental school that later became Visva-Bharati University, emphasizing the importance of holistic education and the integration of arts and humanities. Tagore's educational philosophy and his efforts to promote cultural exchange and understanding continue to influence educational institutions worldwide.
Tagore's impact on Indian and global culture is immeasurable. His contributions to literature, music, art, and education earned him admiration and reverence not only in India but also around the world. He passed away on August 7, 1941, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire generations of writers, artists, and intellectuals.