# XXXII explained — Gitanjali

> Chapter companion for Gitanjali by Rabindranath Tagore.

## What happens

The poet contrasts the possessive love of the world with the liberating love of the Divine, which grants freedom even in absence. He reflects on how worldly lovers cling to him, while the Divine remains unseen yet patiently waits for his love.

## Themes in this chapter

### Freedom and Renunciation

The Divine's love keeps the poet free, unlike the possessive love of the world.

### The Pain of Separation and Longing

The poet notes the absence of the Divine, yet acknowledges that divine love waits for his love.

## Character check-ins

### The Poet

Reflects on the difference between worldly love and divine love.

### The Divine

Keeps the poet free and waits for his love, unseen but ever present.

## Key lines

> By all means they try to hold me secure who love me in this world. But it is otherwise with thy love which is greater than theirs, and thou keepest me free.

Worldly lovers try to keep me safe and bound, but your love, which is greater, sets me free.

_Contrast between possessive worldly love and liberating divine love._

> If I call not thee in my prayers, if I keep not thee in my heart, thy love for me still waits for my love.

Even when I do not pray or think of you, your love patiently awaits my return.

_Emphasizes the unconditional and patient nature of divine love._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/gitanjali_se/chapters/xxxii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/gitanjali_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/gitanjali_se/chapters