POEM FROM TAMIL LITERATURE - THE HIDDEN AXLE OF THE KINGDOM

ABOUT THE POEM:The poem THE HIDDEN AXLE OF THE KINGDOM celebrates the wise and protective leadership of King Athiyaman through a striking rural metaphor. A heavily loaded bullock cart can be pulled with ease because its safety axle absorbs the strain when the cart climbs hills or descends into valleys, preventing the burden from falling upon the young bull. Likewise, King Athiyaman served as the steadfast support behind Prince Poguttelini, shielding him from the full weight of kingship and guiding him with experience and wisdom.With such unwavering guidance, the prince governed the kingdom with the serene brilliance of a full moon. His reign brought peace, security and prosperity to the people, leaving no room for the darkness of fear, injustice or suffering. The poem beautifully conveys that youthful leadership achieves greatness when strengthened by the wisdom, protection and selfless support of an experienced elder.THE HIDDEN AXLE OF THE KINGDOMThough mountain-high the burden on the wagon lay, The youthful bull felt not its crushing weight; The yoke transformed the load along its way. Though down the vale or up the hill by fate, The cart would sway through hollow, ridge and track; Yet wisdom stood to steady every state. Behind the cart, upon its central back, A hanging safety axle, firm and true, Kept jolting weight from striking with its crack. So stood King Athiyaman in steadfast view, The hidden strength behind Prince Poguttelini's reign; A guardian none but grateful hearts yet knew. The prince arose like moonlight after rain; His silver radiance crowned the waiting land. What room had darkness where he chose to reign? For where such sovereign light extends its hand, And ancient wisdom shields the royal throne, The people's hopes blossom through the land. Thus moon and axle, each unseen yet known, Made strength and splendor walk in one accord; The realm found peace beneath their twin-hewn stone. Where guidance bore what youth could not afford, The kingdom flourished, fearless, bright and free— Blessed by the silent power of the kingly ward.PURANANURU - 102POET: AVVAIYARPATRON:POGUTTELINI, THE SON OF ATHIYAMAN NEDUMAN ANZI