POETIC VIEWS BY WILLIAMSJI MAVELI

POETIC VIEWS:
Author Williamsji Maveli
Poet:
Rajani Mula
Poem:
Am I A TEACHER?
My conscience's constant query is quarreling with me.
My knowledge is knocking down my kingdom.
My wisdom is no longer winning peace for me
Whenever I say that I am a teacher.
Those innocent smiles of my students are stealing my smile.
Those mischievous moves of my students are marring me.
The ignorant, indecent, and irksome acts of my students are dumping me in restlessness
Whenever I say that I am a teacher.
The piece of chalk chuckles at my failure.
The blackboard's barbaric blabber buries me in shame.
Textbooks tease and torture me timelessly
Whenever I say that I am a teacher.
It took me a good amount of time to decode what it was,
But when I understood that I am not just a teacher
But a father, mother, and sibling to my students,
I am contributing tirelessly to live in the hearts and thoughts of my residential students.
Now, I no longer accept the title I am entitled to.
Now I am trying to live in the confidence of my students.
Now I am trying to be the boldness of my students.
Now I am striving to stand amidst the obedient, honest, and decent attitudes of my students.
I shall, someday, succeed in my sincere efforts.
None can demotivate my determination!
None can detach me from my devotion.
Maybe this is why I love my life!
Do you still dare to call me, after all, a teacher?
Poem by
Rajani Mula
ANALYSIS
Raji's poem, "Am I a Teacher?", delves deep into the complexities and challenges of the teaching profession. It's a raw, introspective piece that captures the emotional turmoil experienced by many educators.
The poem opens with a profound sense of internal conflict. The poet questions their identity as a teacher, grappling with the weight of expectations, the pressures of the role, and the complexities of student behavior. The use of vivid imagery, such as "knowledge knocking down my kingdom" and "textbooks tease and torture me timelessly," effectively conveys the overwhelming nature of the challenges faced.
A turning point occurs when the poet realizes that her role extends far beyond the traditional teacher-student relationship. They evolve into a multifaceted figure, embodying the roles of a father, mother, and sibling to their students. This shift in perspective is accompanied by a renewed sense of purpose and dedication. The poet's focus shifts from external validation to internal growth and the positive impact on her students.
The poem concludes with a defiant assertion of the poet's identity. The poet challenges the reader to reconsider the traditional definition of a teacher. By emphasizing their commitment to fostering obedience, honesty, and decency in their students, the speaker presents a vision of teaching as a transformative force.
In short, "Am I a Teacher?" is a powerful exploration of the multifaceted nature of the teaching profession. It offers a candid and honest portrayal of the bliss and struggles experienced by educators, ultimately affirming the profound impact they can have on their students' lives. Congratulations, -Author Williamsji Maveli