Homeless in Bangalore

Homeless in Bangalore

THE PARDAH NASHIN

by: Sarojini Naidu (1879-1949)



HER life is a revolving dream 

Of languid and sequestered ease; 

Her girdles and her fillets gleam 

Like changing fires on sunset seas; 

Her raiment is like morning mist, 

Shot opal, gold and amethyst. 

  

From thieving light of eyes impure, 

From coveting sun or wind's caress, 

Her days are guarded and secure 

Behind her carven lattices, 

Like jewels in a turbaned crest, 

Like secrets in a lover's breast. 

  

But though no hand unsanctioned dares 

Unveil the mysteries of her grace, 

Time lifts the curtain unawares, 

And Sorrow looks into her face . . . 

Who shall prevent the subtle years, 

Or shield a woman's eyes from tears?