Gitanjali · Chapter
XCIII explained
The poet bids farewell to his brothers and neighbors, returning the keys to his house and giving up all claims, as he prepares for his final journey at dawn.
What happens
The poet bids farewell to his brothers and neighbors, returning the keys to his house and giving up all claims, as he prepares for his final journey at dawn.
Themes in this chapter
Death and Immortality
The poet's leave-taking and readiness for the journey symbolize a transition beyond life.
Freedom and Renunciation
Giving up keys and claims to the house reflects renunciation of worldly attachments.
Characters to notice
- The Poet
The speaker who takes leave, returns keys, and prepares for the journey.
- The Divine
Implied as the one who summons the poet for the journey.
Key passages
“I have got my leave. Bid me farewell, my brothers! I bow to you all and take my departure.”
I have been granted permission to go. Say goodbye to me, my friends! I respectfully bid you all farewell and leave.
The poet announces his departure and asks for a farewell from his companions.
“Here I give back the keys of my door—and I give up all claims to my house.”
I return the keys to my home and relinquish any rights I had to it.
Symbolic renunciation of worldly possessions and attachments.
“Now the day has dawned and the lamp that lit my dark corner is out. A summons has come and I am ready for my journey.”
The new day has arrived, and the lamp that illuminated my dark space has been extinguished. I have received a call and am prepared to begin my journey.
The poet signals the end of his earthly life and readiness for the next stage.