POEM FROM TAMIL LITERATURE - CROWNLESS YET KINGLY

ABOUT THE POEM:This poem CROWNLESS YET KINGLY praises the noble and selfless life of a true poet. It clarifies that the poet is not a spy or a flatterer but a seeker of generous patrons, much like birds that fly towards fruit-bearing trees. He travels tirelessly, even across barren lands, without worrying about distance or hardship.The poet’s tongue speaks only truth, never sharp lies, and he sings joyfully even when rewards are small. Whatever little he receives, he shares gladly with his family and friends instead of hoarding it. He gives freely without pride, with no expectation of return.If no one gives, he feels genuine sorrow—not for himself, but for the decline of generosity in the world. He is innocent, incapable of harming others, and holds his head high with dignity. Just like noble kings who rule with honour and compassion, such greatness also shines in the humble, large-hearted poet. CROWNLESS YET KINGLY(POETS HOLD THAT VERY GRANDEUR IN THEIR SOULS LIKE KINGS)They say the poet’s life is lone and bare,But not a spy nor trickster he shall be,He seeks the noble hearts with lavish care.Like birds that flock to ripened fruit on tree,He journeys far to find a patron kind—Across dry lands, through sun and storm winds free.He fears no path, though cruelly unaligned;His tongue speaks truth, no sharpened lie it bears,Yet sings for years with joy and heart refined.Though gifts be small, he welcomes them with prayers,And shares them wide with kin and kindred dear,Not hoarding wealth in secret, selfish lairs.His hand throws gifts with joy both far and near,No crooked heart, his spirit pure and plain,He mourns if none give alms—his soul sincere.He knows not harm, nor plots another’s pain,And walks with pride where even foes feel shame—For kings like you with golden-hearted reign,PURANANURU - 47POET: KOVUR KILARPATRON : NEDUNGKILLI, WHO PASSED AWAY AT KARIYARU