Vikram Seth is one of the most celebrated Indian diasporic poets and novelists. He is famous for his novels and his writings are also included in post-colonial literature. The poem “Evening Wheat” reinforces the rustic setting of simplicity and romanticised the beauty of a rural life. The poem has a musical quality where the images of rural setting gives a rural rhythm of music appreciating the beauty and the scenery.
In the poem, the poet paints a vivid picture of the evening scene in a rural setting. The speaker describes how evening is the best time for wheat, implying that it thrives and shines in the fading light of the day. The croaking toads and children riding buffaloes home create a lively atmosphere, suggesting the end of a productive day’s work.
As the last loads of wheat are carried on shoulders, squares start to light up, symbolizing the transition from day to night. The wheat itself is depicted as sagging with a late gold, indicating its ripeness and abundance. The speaker’s focus on the wheat reveals their admiration for its beauty and perhaps the significance of agriculture in their surroundings.
Amidst the wheat fields, the speaker notices the untransplanted emerald rice on the other side of the raised path. This contrast between the golden wheat and the green rice highlights the diversity and richness of the agricultural landscape.
However, despite the presence of the rice, the speaker’s attention remains captivated by the wheat. They observe the still dark gold color of the wheat, suggesting its alluring texture and appearances. The mention of a pig straying from the brigade and enjoying a few soft ears adds a touch of charm and whimsy to the scene.
Overall, these lines invite us to appreciate the beauty of nature and the rhythms of rural life. The imagery of the wheat, rice, toads, children, and even a wandering pig creates a vivid and immersive experience, allowing us to connect with the sights and sounds of the countryside during the evening hours.
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