
Themes
tribal languages and literature
SURMO, jammu & kashmir

Javed Rahi is a master poet, and he is also probably the best writer for valuable insight into tribal and cultural heritage. Rahi's work brings to light the cultural concerns of the Gojri language, representing experiences, traditions, and aesthetics of the tribal people. It portrays beauty, desire for the impossible, and identity in everyday life. One of the poems of Rahi, infused with his high creativity, is "Surmo." Rahi's fascination with culture can be inferred from this poem in the context of personal and social identity.

The poem “Surmo” features short, rhythmic verses that convey the speaker’s desire and challenges related to acquiring and applying antimony, a traditional cosmetic. Each verse captures moments of anticipation and subtle rebellion, forming a structured narrative of small, personal acts. Through the repetitive structure, the poem emphasizes the persistence of desire and the significance of small cultural practices. The verses are both visual and melodic, inviting readers to imagine the scenes with clarity and intimacy.

“Surmo” employs a simple, repetitive rhyme scheme that enhances the rhythmic and chant-like quality of the poem. This pattern serves to highlight the speaker’s determination and the recurring obstacles faced, adding a musicality that reflects the communal storytelling tradition. The rhyming enhances the connection between each verse, reinforcing the poem’s narrative flow and making the theme of persistent longing memorable and engaging for readers.

The mood of “Surmo” is both playful and earnest, capturing a young speaker’s dedication to the cultural practice of beautification through the application of antimony. Themes of self-expression, familial dynamics, and cultural pride are woven into the narrative as the speaker seeks to fulfill their desire despite opposition. This combination of emotion and persistence highlights the value placed on personal grooming in cultural identity and the youthful determination to assert oneself in the face of societal expectations.

“Surmo” centers visually and narratively around the act of obtaining and applying antimony. Each stanza builds upon this focus, with repeated phrases emphasizing the speaker’s yearning and small acts of defiance. The poem’s structure is visually straightforward, reflecting the speaker's earnest and repeated attempts to use antimony despite challenges. This simplicity enhances the poem’s charm, making it a vibrant reflection on personal expression and cultural practices in everyday life.