Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high
Where knowledge is free
Where the world has not been broken up into fragments
By narrow domestic walls
Where words come out from the depth of truth
Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection
Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way
Into the dreary desert sand of dead habit
Where the mind is led forward by thee
Into ever-widening thought and action
Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake.
Where the Mind is Without Fear Summary
Rabindranath Tagore’s poem Where the Mind is Without Fear envisions an ideal nation where people live with dignity, free from fear and oppression. The poem reflects a desire for a society where knowledge is accessible to all, divisions based on narrow-mindedness are dissolved, and truth and honesty are deeply valued. Tagore urges for continuous striving toward perfection, guided by reason and not outdated customs. He expresses a profound hope for a future where people broaden their thoughts and actions, awakening the country into a ‘heaven of freedom.’ This vision is not only for India but holds universal relevance, inspiring all nations to aspire to such ideals.
Q1: What does Tagore mean by “narrow domestic walls”?
A1: Tagore refers to the divisions in society based on caste, religion, race, and class. He wishes for a world where these barriers do not exist, and people live in unity and harmony.
Q2: How does Tagore describe the ideal pursuit of knowledge?
A2: Tagore emphasizes that knowledge should be free and available to everyone, without restrictions or biases. He advocates for an environment where intellectual growth is encouraged and not hindered by societal limitations.
Q3: What is the significance of “tireless striving” in the poem?
A3: “Tireless striving” represents the constant effort individuals should make toward achieving their goals and seeking perfection. It reflects the poet’s belief that progress and self-improvement are ongoing processes.
Q4: Who is the poet addressing when he says, “my Father, let my country awake”?
A4: The poet is addressing God, asking for divine guidance to lead his country toward enlightenment, freedom, and progress. Tagore envisions a spiritual awakening that will transform society into one of freedom and unity.
Q5: What is the role of reason in Tagore’s vision of a free nation?
A5: Tagore values reason highly, describing it as a “clear stream” that should guide people’s thoughts and actions. He warns against falling into the “dreary desert sand of dead habit,” meaning that outdated traditions should not stifle rational thinking and innovation.