POEM FROM TAMIL LITERATURE - THE SILENT PREDATOR

ABOUT THE POEM:The poem THE SILENT PREDATOR uses a striking image from nature to convey the greatness of a young warrior. Just as a crocodile, even in shallow water where children play, can overpower and drag down a mighty elephant, the hero possesses extraordinary strength despite his youth. The speaker cautions rival warriors not to underestimate him because of his age or treat battle with him as a mere sport. The poem celebrates the Sangam ideal that true power lies not in appearance, age, or size, but in courage, skill and the ability to prevail in one's rightful domain.THE SILENT PREDATOR Even in watersno deeper than a child's knees,where little ones splashand laughter ripples the surface,the crocodilecan seize a mighty elephant,drag it beneath,and make its greatness vanish.So is my lord.Warriors,do not mistake his youthfor weakness.Do not enter battle with himas though it were a game.For, like the crocodilethat rules its own waters,he will pull the proudinto the depthsfrom whichnone return.PURANANURU - 104POET: AVVAIYARPATRON:ATHIYAMAN NEDUMAN ANZI