Poem Analysis - My Dependance

Overview: Embracing Interdependence

Rabindranath Tagore's "my dependance" is a gentle affirmation of the interconnectedness of human life. The poem, written in a conversational tone, expresses a desire for reliance on others, not as a weakness, but as a source of richness and fulfillment. It moves from the intimate sphere of family to the wider community, embracing both the positive and potentially challenging aspects of dependence. The overall mood is one of contentment and acceptance, acknowledging that life's tapestry is woven with the threads of shared experience.

The Comfort of Familial Bonds

The poem initially establishes the theme of dependence through the lens of family. The speaker explicitly states, "I like to be dependent," and immediately anchors this sentiment in the "warmth and care of my mother, / my father." This opening establishes dependence as a positive force, associated with love, affection ("kiss and embrace"), and a sense of security. The phrase "wear life happily in all their grace" suggests that the speaker finds joy and ease in relying on their parents, viewing their support as an integral part of a fulfilling life. This familial foundation colors the speaker's view of dependence throughout the poem, shaping it into something nurturing and desirable.

Community as a Source of Guidance

Beyond the immediate family, the poem expands to include "kith and kin," friends, and even neighbours, developing the theme of community support. The speaker welcomes the "harsh and warm advices, complaints" from relatives, suggesting that even potentially negative interactions are valuable contributions to their life. The inclusion of "domestic, family and romantic tips" from friends and colleagues ("guide me work at risks") demonstrates a willingness to seek guidance and share experiences. This illustrates how the speaker believes that dependence can be enriching as it opens them up to experience and knowledge. They are willingly open to the joys and pains of being connected to others and receiving their support.

Accepting Imperfection in Relationships

The poem acknowledges that dependence is not always smooth and harmonious, introducing the idea of human imperfection. The mention of neighbours who "envy at times" introduces a note of realism, indicating that even in dependence, there can be elements of jealousy or conflict. However, the speaker does not reject these negative emotions; instead, they seem to accept them as a natural part of human interaction. The line "like to hear / my daily steps, easy and odd things too" shows that the speaker also knows that others are invested in their life and choices. This acceptance suggests a mature understanding of relationships, recognizing that dependence involves both positive and potentially challenging aspects.

Interdependence: A Conscious Choice

The recurring phrase "I like to be dependent, and so for ever" is the poem's central motif, emphasizing that dependence is a deliberate and continuous choice. It's not a passive state, but an active preference for connection and shared experience. By repeating this declaration throughout the poem, Tagore reinforces the idea that the speaker values interdependence as a fundamental aspect of their identity and happiness. The poem ends not with a resolution, but with an ongoing state of being. The speaker desires a constant connection with others, highlighting a belief in the enriching and fulfilling nature of human relationships. The poem is a quiet, but forceful, statement that humans need one another and that dependence should not be seen as weakness, but a strength that helps us navigate the world.