“Snakes” by A.K. Ramanujan is a rich and multi-faceted poem that delves into the poet’s contemplation of snakes, exploring both their physical presence and the symbolic layers associated with them. The title serves as a thematic anchor, setting the stage for a nuanced exploration of fear, transformation, and the intertwining of the mystical and the ordinary.

The poem unfolds with the poet’s musings on snakes in various settings – from museums of quartz to aisles of bookstacks. This positioning of snakes in seemingly disparate environments underscores their omnipresence in the poet’s consciousness. The poet draws connections between everyday objects, like the “yellow vein in the yellow amber” or a book with gold on its spine, and the mental associations they trigger with snakes. This symbolic layering suggests that the poet sees the essence of snakes in elements of the world around him.

A domestic scene emerges as a central tableau where a basketful of ritual cobras enters a tame little house. Here, the poet portrays a transformation in the perception of snakes, moving from creatures of fear to recipients of care. The act of the mother giving them milk in saucers humanizes the snakes, challenging conventional notions of these creatures as purely menacing. The poet’s scream at the sight of the snake man adorning cobras around his neck adds a layer of tension, revealing a complex emotional response to the intersection of the mystical and the domesticated.

Cultural references, such as the blind boy counting fingers and the granny’s story about princes in a forest, contribute to the depth of the poem. These elements suggest a blending of personal and cultural narratives, enriching the thematic tapestry. The incident in the woods, where the poet gains confidence and steps on a snake, becomes a pivotal moment. It symbolizes a shift from fear to a sense of control, a transformation in the poet’s relationship with these creatures. The sibilant alphabet of panic created by the snakes on the floor becomes a metaphor for the poet’s internal struggles and confrontations with fear.

The poem also touches upon the cyclical nature of life through the portrayal of oranges in the market scene. The oranges, with their seeds, become symbols of growth and continuity. The structural organization of the poem into stanzas allows for a layered exploration of the theme, presenting readers with distinct snapshots of the poet’s reflections on snakes. Importantly, the poem deliberately lacks a clear resolution, inviting readers to engage actively with its themes and draw their own interpretations. This open-endedness adds to the poem’s complexity, prompting readers to reflect on the nature of fear, transformation, and the cyclical rhythms of life.

In essence, “Snakes” weaves together vivid imagery, symbolism, and cultural allusions to create a textured exploration of the poet’s relationship with snakes. It challenges conventional perceptions, invites introspection, and celebrates the multifaceted nature of these enigmatic creatures in the poet’s consciousness.