Late Romantics in Malayalam Literature: Voices of Sorrow and Idealism

Introduction

The late Romantics in Malayalam literature were a group of poets who embodied extreme idealism and dream-like visions. Their works often reflected an obsession with death, the brevity of life, and the futility of human existence. Unlike mere aesthetes who created art for art’s sake, these poets infused their writings with profound reflections on suffering, human dignity, and metaphysical thought. Following in the footsteps of the Great Trio of Malayalam literature Vallathol, Ulloor, and Kumaran Asan—the late Romantics carved a distinct niche in the literary landscape of Kerala.

Nalappat Narayana Menon: A Philosopher-Poet

Among the late Romantics, Nalappat Narayana Menon (1887–1955) stands out as a significant figure. Though his poetic output was limited, his intellectual pursuits in criticism, psychology, and Indian philosophy enriched Malayalam literature. His most celebrated work, Kannunirthulli (Teardrop), is an elegy mourning the death of his wife. Written in a lucid and terse style, the poem resonates with nostalgic intensity and metaphysical reflection. For a literary tradition steeped in fatalism, Nalappat’s poetry offered a new lens to view suffering, blending personal grief with universal truths.

Changanpuzha and Idappally: Romantic Suffering

Two younger poets, Changanpuzha Krishna Pillai (1914–1948) and Idappally Raghavan Pillai (1909–1936), also defined the late Romantic spirit. Changanpuzha’s Ramanan, a pastoral elegy inspired by Idappally’s tragic suicide, became a landmark in Malayalam poetry. It continues to inspire generations of poets with its lyrical beauty and romantic anguish. Changanpuzha’s short life produced a rich body of work, including Vazhakkula (A Stalk of Plantains), which narrates the plight of a poor tenant whose hard-earned fruit is seized by a landlord. This poem exemplifies the Romantic concern for human dignity and sorrow, while also hinting at social critique. Through such works, Changanpuzha gave voice to the marginalized and articulated a “revolution of the heart.”

The Decline of Romanticism and Rise of Post-Romantics

Romantic poetry in Malayalam weakened after Changanpuzha’s death, though Vallathol lived on for another decade. Yet, the Romantic movement had already laid the foundation for a native poetic voice that was modern, distinct, and free from Western imitation. The post-Romantics sought to continue this legacy, striking a truly Malayalam note in their works.

G. Sankara Kurup: Humanism and Postmodern Sensibility

G. Sankara Kurup (1901–1978) emerged as a towering figure in the post-Romantic era. His collection Odakkuzhal (Bamboo Flute, 1950) won him the first Jnanpith Award in 1965, marking a milestone in Indian literary history. Inspired more by Rabindranath Tagore than Wordsworth, Kurup championed humanism and infused his poetry with reflections on science and human potential. His narrative poem The Master Carpenter reinterprets a Kerala legend with a postmodern twist, exploring themes of envy, artistry, and the Oedipal struggle. Kurup’s works bridged Romantic lyricism with modern sensibilities, making him a unique voice in Malayalam literature.

Legacy of the Late Romantics

The contributions of the late Romantics and their successors enriched Malayalam literature in the first half of the twentieth century. Poets such as Kunjiraman Nair, Balamani Amma, Edassery, Vailoppilli, O.N.V. Kurup, Sugatha Kumari, and Yusuf Ali Kecheri carried forward the Romantic spirit while adapting it to modern contexts. Interestingly, Romantic works like O.N.V. Kurup’s Ujjaini (1995) and Sugatha Kumari’s Ambalamani (1993) remain bestsellers, proving the enduring appeal of Romantic ideals in Malayalam poetry.

Conclusion

The late Romantics in Malayalam literature were more than dreamers; they were visionaries who grappled with existential questions and human suffering. Their works combined lyrical beauty with social critique, paving the way for a modern, indigenous poetic voice. From Nalappat’s metaphysical reflections to Changanpuzha’s lyrical sorrow and Kurup’s humanist vision, the late Romantics left behind a legacy that continues to inspire readers and writers alike. Their poetry reminds us that even in the face of death and futility, art can illuminate The Dignity of Human Life.

 

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