In the delicate weave of our lives, some threads leave indelible marks, shaping our world in profound ways. One such thread, woven into the fabric of the poem presented, takes us through a nostalgic journey of love and loss, expressed through the poignant metaphor of parallel lines and the cherished memory of a beloved pet.
The Intersection of Memory and Pet Reality
The poem begins with a nostalgic nod to the simplicity of school days, where the concept of parallel lines was a fundamental lesson in geometry. This seemingly trivial educational concept transforms into a powerful metaphor for the relationship between the speaker and their pet. The parallel lines, which in mathematical terms never meet, symbolize the distance and separation that eventually come to define the relationship with the pet. The realization that they were parallel lines too—meant to exist alongside each other without convergence—adds a layer of emotional depth to the speaker’s reflections on their pet.
A Day in the Life of a Pet
As the poem progresses, it shifts to a personal recount of the relationship with the pet. The speaker describes the pet’s presence as an integral part of their daily routine, illustrating a bond built on mutual presence and affection. From the physical reminders of the pet’s presence, like paw stains on clothes, to the reserved spot in the car, the poem captures the profound impact of the pet’s companionship. These small details—such as the pet’s annoyance at the neighbor’s boy playing the flute—paint a vivid picture of a pet who, despite being “annoying” at times, was cherished beyond measure.
The innocent Loyal Pet
The pet, described as a “cute little creamy puppy” and a “labrador by breed but an emotional fellow in nature,” symbolizes innocence and unwavering loyalty. The speaker’s affection is evident in their description of the pet as the most “innocent creature,” and this emotional connection is what makes the loss of the pet so poignant. The contrast between the pet’s innocent demeanor and the harsh reality of its absence highlights the depth of the speaker’s grief over their beloved pet.
The Bittersweet Reality of Parallel Pet Lives
The metaphor of parallel lines resonates deeply, as it reflects the inherent sadness in the realization that some connections, no matter how close or meaningful, are destined to remain unfulfilled in the traditional sense. The pet’s departure, described as “fortunate” in having met but “unfortunate” in never truly intersecting, underscores the bittersweet nature of the relationship with the pet. It’s a reminder of how some bonds, while profoundly influential, are fleeting and cannot be reclaimed.
Preserving the Memory of a Cherished Pet
The final verses of the poem reflect a sense of resignation and ongoing connection. The speaker continues to rest on the terrace, a place once shared with the pet. This act of maintaining a routine, despite the absence of the pet, signifies an attempt to hold on to the memories and preserve the bond with the pet in the face of loss. The difference now is palpable—the speaker’s life has irrevocably changed, yet the memories of the pet remain a source of comfort and bittersweet reflection.
In essence, this poem captures the beauty of a relationship with a pet that, while never fully intersecting as hoped, was deeply impactful. It eloquently explores the themes of love, loss, and the enduring nature of memory, all through the lens of a relationship with a cherished pet. The use of mathematical metaphors to convey emotional truths adds a unique and thought-provoking dimension to the narrative, making it a poignant tribute to a beloved pet.
The Poem
I remember my school going days,
When parallel lines were taught in the geometric process,
Years passed then I met you,
Couldn’t realize we were parallel lines too,
Loving you I wasn’t aware,
Losing you would be a nightmare,
The photographs take me to the memory lanes,
You aren’t here but my clothes still have your paw’s stains,
You could recognize me from a distance far,
The front seat was obviously reserved for you in the car,
You allowed nobody to sleep next to me,
I got really trapped if in the house stayed guests any,
Sometimes you made annoying expressions and sometimes looked cute,
How can I forget your irritated face when the neighbor’s boy played flute?
My morning started with your face,
And it was enough for me to deal with the day’s stress,
You were a cute little creamy puppy when I first saw you,
Then you got acquainted with me in a moments few,
A labrador by breed but an emotional fellow in nature,
I think you were the most innocent creature,
How selfish you are?
How can you without me stay among the stars?
It was fortunate that we met,
Unfortunately parallel lines never intersect,
You know what I still rest on the terrace,
Just you are no more with me that’s the difference.
-Sunaainaa Mohanty