IF I WERE TO START ALL OVER AGAIN
Mahmoud Darwish
INTRODUCTION
The present poem is written by a famous Palestinian Poet and writer Mahmoud Darwish. The po was originally written in Arabic but Later on translated in English by Abdullah al-Udhari in his translated poetry collection “The Victim of map”
THE VICTIM OF MAP
“The Victim of a Map” is a collection of Arabic poetry translated into English by Abdullah al-Udhari. This anthology features poems from four renowned Arab poets: Adonis, Mahmoud Darwish, Samih al-Qasim, and Qassim Haddad. The work showcases the rich literary tradition and diverse voices within modern Arabic poetry, addressing themes such as identity, exile, resistance, and the human condition. Al-Udhari’s translations aim to preserve the lyrical beauty and depth of the original works, making them accessible to a broader audience while highlighting the poets’ contributions to contemporary world literature.
ABOUT THE POEM
This poem is about looking back on life and accepting the choices made along the way. The speaker talks about being okay with past decisions, even though life is full of uncertainties. They use vivid pictures to show how they have cared for temporary moments and supported others, even if it means changing themselves.
The poem also highlights the need for companionship and the fear of being alone, especially when tired or facing challenges. The speaker shares a deep love for an ideal homeland, free from pain and conflict, and admires people who hide their struggles behind their desires.
In the end, the speaker decides to hold on to the loved parts of their past while avoiding paths that lead to regret. This shows a desire to move forward with courage and purpose.
This poem encourages readers to think about their own lives, accept their past choices, and find meaning and connection in the present and future.
IF I WERE TO START ALL OVER AGAIN
SUMMARY AND ANALYSIS
The speaker starts by expressing that, even if given the chance to start life anew, they would make the same choices again, emphasizing contentment and acceptance of their past decisions. They reflect on their willingness to undertake uncertain journeys, symbolizing life’s unpredictability and the inherent risks and rewards of different paths.
The poem then uses the imagery of shadows and rocks to illustrate offering parts of oneself for the benefit of transient elements in life, like providing a resting place for fleeting aspects. This suggests a readiness to support and nurture temporary moments or beings, indicating a compassionate and selfless nature.
Next, the speaker conveys a willingness to disrupt or transform their hidden self in pursuit of sensory experiences and transient pleasures, indicating a desire to embrace life’s fleeting joys despite potential disruptions to their inner world.
Feeling weary from their life’s journey, the speaker expresses a need for companionship and support, inviting someone to share their sustenance and not abandon them. This highlights the human desire for connection and the fear of isolation, particularly during challenging times.
The speaker then expresses love for an idealized homeland that remains untainted by farewells, conflict, or subjugation, symbolizing a longing for purity and freedom from pain. They admire those who endure inner struggles and sacrifices, concealing their turmoil beneath their desires, indicating respect for hidden strength and resilience.
Finally, the speaker resolves to return to familiar, cherished aspects of their past if necessary but firmly decides against revisiting uncertain or unfulfilled paths. This reflects a contemplative approach to life’s journey, emphasizing the importance of personal choices, the acceptance of past decisions, and the resolve to avoid paths that lead to uncertainty and potential regret.
CONCLUSION
Overall, the poem is a rich, contemplative reflection on life’s journey, the acceptance of past choices, the need for human connection, and the resolve to avoid paths that lead to uncertainty and unfulfilled potential.
