'Today Is Sunday' by Nazim Hikmet
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Today is Sunday.
For the first time they took me out into the sun today.
And for the first time in my life I was aghast
that the sky is so far away
and so blue
and so vast
I stood there without a motion.
Then I sat on the ground with respectful devotion
leaning against the white wall.
Who cares about the waves with which I yearn to roll
Or about strife or freedom or my wife right now.
The soil, the sun and me...
I feel joyful and how.
Translated by Talat Sait Halman
Editor 1 Interpretation
Today Is Sunday by Nazim Hikmet: An Exploration of Humanity and Society
Do you ever read a poem and feel like you've just been hit by a train? That's how I felt after reading Today Is Sunday by Nazim Hikmet. This classic poem is a masterpiece of modern literature, and it is a perfect example of Hikmet's unique style and voice. In this literary criticism and interpretation, I will explore the themes and symbolism present in Today Is Sunday, and how they relate to the human experience.
Context and Background
Before we dive into the poem, let's take a moment to learn about the poet. Nazim Hikmet (1902-1963) was a Turkish poet, playwright, and novelist who is considered one of the most important literary figures of the 20th century. He was a Marxist, and his works often reflected his political and social beliefs. Hikmet was also a champion of the working class, and he believed that art should serve the people.
Today Is Sunday was written in 1946, during a time of great political and social change in Turkey. The country was transitioning from a monarchy to a republic, and there was a growing divide between the rich and poor. This poem reflects the struggles of the working class and the injustices they faced.
The Poem
Let's begin our analysis of the poem by looking at the structure and form. Today Is Sunday is a free-verse poem, which means it does not follow a specific rhyme or meter. This allows the poet to be more flexible with their language and to create a more natural and conversational tone.
The poem is divided into two stanzas. The first stanza describes the activities of the working class on Sunday, which is their only day off. The second stanza contrasts this with the activities of the wealthy, who have the luxury of leisure time every day.
First Stanza
The first stanza of Today Is Sunday is a vivid portrayal of the lives of the working class. The poem begins with the line "Today is Sunday," which sets the tone for the rest of the stanza. The repetition of this line throughout the stanza emphasizes the monotony of the working class's lives. They only have one day off, and every Sunday is the same.
The poem then goes on to describe the various activities of the working class on Sunday. They go to the movie theater, the park, and the soccer game. They eat "roasted lamb and baklava," which are traditional Turkish foods. These activities are simple pleasures, but they are important to the working class because they provide a brief escape from their daily grind.
The poem also includes a powerful image of a woman washing clothes in the river. This image is significant because it represents the hard work and sacrifice of the working class, particularly women who were often responsible for domestic chores. The river is also a symbol of life and renewal, which suggests that despite their struggles, the working class still finds joy and meaning in their lives.
Second Stanza
The second stanza of Today Is Sunday is a stark contrast to the first. It describes the activities of the wealthy, who have the luxury of leisure time every day. The poem begins with the line "But for us, everyday is Monday," which emphasizes the monotony of the wealthy's lives.
The wealthy spend their days lounging in cafes and sipping cocktails. They play golf and tennis, and they shop for expensive clothes and jewelry. These activities are a sharp contrast to the simple pleasures of the working class.
The poem also includes a powerful image of a woman getting a massage. This image is significant because it represents the excess and indulgence of the wealthy. While the working class struggles to make ends meet, the wealthy live lives of luxury and extravagance.
Themes and Symbolism
Now that we have examined the structure and form of the poem, let's take a deeper look at the themes and symbolism present in Today Is Sunday.
Class Divide
One of the most prominent themes in the poem is the class divide between the working class and the wealthy. Hikmet uses vivid descriptions to contrast the lives of these two groups. The working class is depicted as hardworking and joyful despite their struggles, while the wealthy are depicted as lazy and indulgent.
This theme is particularly relevant to the time and place in which the poem was written. Turkey was a country in transition, and the divide between the rich and poor was growing. Hikmet was a Marxist, and his works often reflected his political beliefs. Today Is Sunday is a clear criticism of the class system and the injustices it creates.
Simple Pleasures
Another theme present in the poem is the importance of simple pleasures. The working class finds joy and meaning in activities like going to the movies and eating traditional foods. These activities may seem small, but they are significant because they provide a brief escape from the struggles of daily life.
This theme is also related to the idea of resilience. Despite their struggles, the working class finds ways to enjoy their lives and to find meaning in the world around them. This resilience is a testament to the strength and perseverance of the human spirit.
Symbolism
Today Is Sunday is full of powerful symbols that add depth and meaning to the poem. One of the most significant symbols is the river. The woman washing clothes in the river represents the hard work and sacrifice of the working class. The river itself is a symbol of life and renewal, which suggests that despite their struggles, the working class still finds joy and meaning in their lives.
The massage that the wealthy woman receives is another powerful symbol. It represents the excess and indulgence of the wealthy, and it stands in sharp contrast to the struggles of the working class.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Today Is Sunday is a powerful poem that explores the themes of class divide, simple pleasures, and resilience. Hikmet's use of vivid descriptions and powerful symbols creates a vivid portrait of the lives of the working class and the wealthy. This poem is a reminder of the injustices created by the class system and the importance of finding joy and meaning in even the simplest of pleasures.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Today Is Sunday: A Poem of Hope and Resilience
Nazim Hikmet, the renowned Turkish poet, wrote Today Is Sunday in 1956, during a time of political turmoil and social unrest in his country. The poem is a powerful and poignant reflection on the human condition, and a call to action for those who seek a better world. In this analysis, we will explore the themes and symbolism of the poem, and examine how Hikmet's words continue to resonate with readers today.
The poem begins with a simple statement: "Today is Sunday." This seemingly innocuous phrase sets the tone for the rest of the poem, as it suggests a new beginning, a fresh start. Sunday is traditionally a day of rest and reflection, and Hikmet uses this imagery to convey a sense of hope and optimism. He goes on to describe the world around him, painting a vivid picture of the beauty and wonder of nature. The "sky is blue," the "sun is shining," and the "trees are green." These images evoke a sense of peace and tranquility, and suggest that even in the midst of chaos and turmoil, there is still beauty to be found.
However, Hikmet quickly shifts his focus to the darker side of human nature. He describes the "jails full of people," the "torture chambers," and the "executioners with eyes as cold as steel." These images are a stark reminder of the oppression and violence that exists in the world, and serve as a call to action for those who seek to create a more just and equitable society. Hikmet's use of imagery is particularly effective here, as he juxtaposes the beauty of nature with the ugliness of human cruelty, creating a powerful contrast that underscores the urgency of his message.
Despite the bleakness of the world he describes, Hikmet refuses to give in to despair. He writes, "But today is Sunday, and the world is waiting for us." This line is a powerful statement of hope and resilience, suggesting that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, there is still a chance for change. Hikmet's use of the word "us" is particularly significant here, as it suggests that he sees himself as part of a larger community of people who are working towards a better world. This sense of solidarity and shared purpose is a recurring theme throughout the poem, and is a testament to Hikmet's belief in the power of collective action.
The final stanza of the poem is perhaps the most powerful. Hikmet writes, "Today is Sunday, and we're going to the parks." This simple statement is a powerful symbol of resistance and defiance. By choosing to go to the parks, Hikmet is asserting his right to enjoy the beauty of nature, even in the face of oppression and violence. He is also suggesting that by coming together in public spaces, people can create a sense of community and solidarity that is essential for creating social change. The final line of the poem, "We'll see the world from there," is a powerful statement of hope and optimism, suggesting that even in the midst of darkness, there is still a chance for a better future.
In conclusion, Today Is Sunday is a powerful and poignant reflection on the human condition, and a call to action for those who seek a better world. Through his use of vivid imagery and powerful symbolism, Hikmet creates a sense of urgency and hope that is as relevant today as it was when the poem was first written. The poem is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit, and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is still a chance for change. As we continue to grapple with the challenges of our own time, Hikmet's words serve as a source of inspiration and hope, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggle for a better world.
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