Analysis of “Death and the Good Citizen” by A.K. Ramanujan

A.K. Ramanujan’s poem, “Death and the Good Citizen,” intricately weaves together themes of nature, cultural identity, and the contrast between traditional practices and modern interventions. Through vivid imagery, metaphorical depth, and a keen observation of human actions, Ramanujan crafts a poem that prompts readers to reflect on the interconnectedness of life, death, and the environment.

Interconnectedness of Human Actions and Nature: Ramanujan opens the poem by delving into the daily routine of waste disposal. The metaphorical term “nightsoil” represents the waste generated by the city, emphasizing its daily collection in a government lorry. The warmth of this waste, described as “still warm every morning,” connects the human activity with the natural world. The rhythmic and punctual disposal is highlighted, setting the stage for a reflection on the consequences of these actions.

Contrasting Natural Decomposition and Modern Dismantling: The central theme of the poem revolves around the contrast between natural decomposition and the modern practice of dismantling for spare parts. The speaker addresses the person as a “Good animal, yet perfect citizen,” praising their biodegradable nature. This praise, however, is juxtaposed with the critique of the modern approach to death. The speaker points out the deviation from the natural cycle, emphasizing the dismantling of the body rather than its decomposition.

Cultural Identity and Rituals: Ramanujan introduces a layer of cultural identity, particularly through a preference for Hindu cremation practices. The poet expresses pride in adhering to cultural beliefs, suggesting a connection to one’s roots. The use of Sanskrit and sandalwood in the cremation process symbolizes a reverence for tradition. This aspect adds depth to the poem, showcasing the importance of cultural rituals in shaping perceptions of life and death.

Surrealism, Metaphor, and Symbolism: The poem employs surrealistic elements, such as the oranges becoming a “preternatural orange” and eyes waiting in an eye-bank. These metaphors add symbolic layers, signifying the unnatural outcomes of modern interventions. The oranges represent the impact of human waste on the environment, while eyes and hearts symbolize the preserved state and potential for life beyond one’s own.

Critique of Modernity: Ramanujan’s critique of modern approaches to death is evident throughout the poem. The poet questions the wisdom of dismantling the body, transforming it into spare parts for medical use. The irony lies in praising the person as a “perfect citizen” while highlighting the departure from natural processes. The poem suggests a disconnection from the environment and a deviation from the cyclical nature of life.

Conclusion: In “Death and the Good Citizen,” A.K. Ramanujan invites readers to contemplate the intricate relationship between human actions, nature, and the choices made in the face of mortality. The poem serves as a commentary on the consequences of modern interventions, emphasizing the need to respect natural cycles. Through its rich use of imagery, metaphor, and symbolism, the poem prompts a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of life and the environment, leaving readers with a thought-provoking reflection on their own role in the natural order.