Analysis of Latter-Day Psalms

Introduction

Latter-Day Psalms, published in 1982, is one of Nissim Ezekiel’s most significant poetry collections, earning him the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award in 1983. This collection marks a mature phase in Ezekiel’s poetic journey, where he reinterprets the ancient biblical Psalms through a modern, skeptical, and often ironic lens. It is a profound exploration of faith, doubt, morality, and the human condition in a contemporary context, showcasing Ezekiel’s intellectual rigor and his unique blend of reverence and irreverence.

Structure and Content

The collection is structured around a series of poems that are direct responses to, or reinterpretations of, the biblical Psalms. Each poem takes a Psalm as its starting point, but instead of offering a straightforward devotional rendition, Ezekiel engages with the text critically, questioning its assumptions, exploring its relevance (or irrelevance) to modern life, and infusing it with his characteristic irony and urban sensibility.

Major Poems and Their Themes

While the collection is a cohesive whole, each “Psalm” offers a unique perspective:

• “Psalm 1”: Often a reinterpretation of the traditional Psalm 1, which praises the righteous man. Ezekiel might question what constitutes righteousness in a modern, complex world, or satirize superficial piety.

• “The Egoist’s Prayers”: Though not a direct Psalm, this section within the collection is a series of prayers that reveal the speaker’s self-centeredness and hypocrisy, offering a satirical commentary on human nature and false piety.

• “The Truth about the Floods”: This poem, while not a Psalm, is often discussed in conjunction with the collection for its critical and realistic portrayal of a natural disaster, contrasting with any idealized or divine intervention.

Major Themes

• Faith and Doubt: A central theme is the tension between traditional faith and modern skepticism. Ezekiel grapples with religious belief, not by rejecting it outright, but by questioning its literal interpretations and seeking a more authentic, personal understanding of spirituality.

• Morality and Ethics in a Modern World: The collection explores what it means to be moral in a complex, often corrupt, urban environment. Ezekiel often critiques hypocrisy and superficial adherence to religious tenets.

• The Human Condition: Through his reinterpretation of the Psalms, Ezekiel delves into universal aspects of the human condition: suffering, ambition, self-deception, and the search for meaning.

• Irony and Satire: Ezekiel uses irony and satire to expose the gap between religious ideals and human reality. He challenges conventional piety and the uncritical acceptance of dogma.

• The Role of the Poet/Intellectual: The collection reflects the poet’s role as a critical observer and interpreter of tradition, engaging with ancient texts to find their contemporary relevance.

Literary Style

• Intertextuality: The collection is a prime example of intertextuality, as it directly engages with and reinterprets the biblical Psalms. This creates a dialogue between ancient wisdom and modern experience.
• Irony and Satire: Ezekiel’s characteristic irony and satirical wit are prominently displayed, used to critique societal and religious pretensions.
• Direct and Conversational Tone: Despite the philosophical and religious subject matter, the language remains accessible and conversational, making the complex ideas relatable.
• Intellectual Rigor: The poems demonstrate a deep intellectual engagement with the source material, offering thoughtful and often provocative reinterpretations.
• Urban Sensibility: Even when dealing with biblical themes, Ezekiel often infuses the poems with his urban sensibility, grounding the abstract in concrete, contemporary realities.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Latter-Day Psalms is considered a significant achievement in Ezekiel’s career and a landmark in Indian English poetry. It was praised for its intellectual courage, its innovative approach to religious themes, and its sharp social commentary. The Sahitya Akademi Award cemented its place as a major work. The collection continues to be studied for its unique blend of faith and skepticism, its incisive critique of modern life, and its enduring relevance to the human spiritual quest.