The Coromandel Fishers Summary Analysis Questions Answers

By Tanmoy Kumar Bhattacharjya 

The Coromandel Fishers By Sarojini Naidu

The Coromandel Fishers Summary Analysis Questions Answers

 The Coromandel Fishers" is a beautiful poem written by Sarojini Naidu, an Indian poet, and political activist. Sarojini Naidu, also known as the "Nightingale of India," was born on February 13, 1879, in Hyderabad, India. She was the first woman to become the President of the Indian National Congress and later went on to become the first woman to hold the position of the Governor in independent India. Naidu's poetry often celebrated India's rich cultural heritage, portrayed nature's beauty, and delved into themes of freedom and patriotism.

About Sarojini Naidu:

Sarojini Naidu, known as the "Nightingale of India," was a renowned Indian poet, politician, and freedom fighter. Born on February 13, 1879, she was celebrated for her lyrical poetry that celebrated India's culture. Naidu actively participated in the independence movement and became the first woman to preside over the Indian National Congress. Her contributions as a poet and leader continue to inspire generations. She passed away on March 2, 1949, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in India's history.

Summary of The Coromandel Fishers 

"The Coromandel Fishers" is a lyrical and evocative poem that celebrates the adventurous and perilous life of fishermen living along the Coromandel Coast, a region in southeastern India known for its scenic beauty and abundant marine life. The poem paints a vivid picture of the fishermen's daily routine, their strong connection with the sea, and their brave pursuit of sustenance.

The poem opens with an invocation to the fishermen to rise and embrace the morning light as the skies awaken. It describes the sea as a mother and the clouds as brothers, signifying the intimate bond the fishermen share with nature. The wind, which was restless through the night, now lies peacefully in the arms of dawn, much like a child who has cried itself to sleep.

The fishermen are urged to gather their fishing nets and set their catamarans free. The poet praises them as the "kings of the sea" who are about to venture into the ocean to harvest the bountiful wealth offered by the tide. Their confidence and mastery over the sea are emphasized.

The poem acknowledges the dangers the fishermen face during their journey. Though they might encounter storms as the sun sets, they have faith in the sea-god who will protect them and keep them safe. They draw strength from their belief in the sea-god's protection as they brave the tumultuous waves.

The poem then reflects on the allure of peaceful and serene places such as coconut groves and mango groves, but ultimately, the fishermen find greater joy in the exhilarating experience of sailing on the sea, feeling the spray of the waves, and witnessing the dance of wild foam. The poem concludes with a call to row further towards the horizon where the sky and sea merge, indicating the fishermen's adventurous spirit and determination to explore the vastness of the ocean.

Word-meanings from The Coromandel Fishers 

Coromandel: Refers to the Coromandel Coast, a coastal region in southeastern India.

Catamarans: A type of small boat or vessel used by fishermen, typically with two parallel hulls.

Tide: The rise and fall of the sea, caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun.

Comrades: Friends or companions who share a close bond, often used to refer to fellow sailors or fishermen in this context.

Cocoanut: Coconut, the fruit of the coconut palm tree.

Glade: An open space in a forest or woods.

Mango grove: An area with a collection of mango trees.

Spray: The water particles that are carried by the wind from the surface of the sea, creating a fine mist.

Foam: The froth formed on the top of waves, especially during stormy or turbulent weather.

Verge: The edge or border, in this context, it refers to the horizon where the sky meets the sea.

Line by Line Analysis of The Coromandel Fishers

Let's delve into a line-by-line analysis of "The Coromandel Fishers":

Line 1: "Rise, brothers, rise; the wakening skies pray to the morning light,"

The poem begins with an invocation, calling upon the fishermen to rise and embrace the new day as the skies awake and greet the morning light. The use of the phrase "the wakening skies" personifies the sky, making it seem like a living entity that is also waking up.

Line 2: "The wind lies asleep in the arms of the dawn like a child that has cried all night."

Here, the wind is likened to a sleeping child who has cried throughout the night. The comparison emphasizes the calmness and stillness of the morning, where the wind that was turbulent during the night has now found peace in the embrace of dawn.

Line 3: "Come, let us gather our nets from the shore and set our catamarans free,"

The fishermen are called upon to gather their fishing nets from the shore and release their catamarans, indicating that they are about to embark on their fishing journey.

Line 4: "To capture the leaping wealth of the tide, for we are the kings of the sea!"

The purpose of the fishermen's voyage is to catch the abundant fish and other marine resources brought by the rising tide. They are referred to as "kings of the sea," highlighting their mastery and dominion over the waters.

Line 5: "No longer delay, let us hasten away in the track of the sea gull's call,"

The call for action continues, urging the fishermen not to delay any further and to set sail, following the path indicated by the sea gulls. Sea gulls are often considered navigational guides for sailors.

Line 6: "The sea is our mother, the cloud is our brother, the waves are our comrades all."

The poem establishes a profound connection between the fishermen and nature. They view the sea as their mother, the clouds as their brothers, and the waves as their comrades or companions, emphasizing their strong bond with the elements.

Line 7: "What though we toss at the fall of the sun where the hand of the sea-god drives?"

Despite the challenges they may face when the sun sets, and they encounter rough waters and storms, the fishermen remain undeterred. They attribute these occurrences to the actions of the sea-god, suggesting their trust in divine protection.

Line 8: "He who holds the storm by the hair, will hide in his breast our lives."

The fishermen have faith that the sea-god, who controls the storms ("holds the storm by the hair"), will protect and shelter them, safeguarding their lives even in turbulent times.

Line 9: "Sweet is the shade of the cocoanut glade, and the scent of the mango grove,"

The poet acknowledges the appeal of tranquil and beautiful places like coconut groves and mango groves, highlighting the allure of peaceful surroundings.

Line 10: "And sweet are the sands at the full o' the moon with the sound of the voices we love;"

The poem suggests that the sound of the voices of loved ones on the sandy shores during the full moon is also sweet and comforting.

Line 11: "But sweeter, O brothers, the kiss of the spray and the dance of the wild foam's glee;"

The joy and excitement experienced by the fishermen while sailing on the sea, feeling the spray of the waves and witnessing the wild foam's dance, surpass even the pleasures of serene landscapes and the company of loved ones.

Line 12: "Row, brothers, row to the edge of the verge, where the low sky mates with the sea."

The poem concludes with an adventurous call to the fishermen to row their boats further towards the horizon ("the edge of the verge") where the sky and sea meet. This line emphasizes their daring spirit and willingness to explore the vastness of the ocean.

In summary, "The Coromandel Fishers" is a beautiful and vivid poem that celebrates the life of fishermen, their deep connection with nature, and their fearless pursuit of the sea's bounty. Sarojini Naidu's imagery and poetic expressions vividly portray the harmony between humans and the elements, and the adventurous spirit of those who make their journey to the sea.

MCQ questions answers from The Coromandel Fishers 

Here are some multiple-choice questions (MCQs) based on the poem "The Coromandel Fishers" by Sarojini Naidu, along with their answers:

Question 1:

What do the fishermen set free before embarking on their fishing journey?

A) Birds

B) Horses

C) Nets

D) Catamarans

Answer: D) Catamarans

Question 2:

What is the fishermen's view of the sea, clouds, and waves?

A) They fear them as powerful entities.

B) They consider them enemies.

C) They see them as part of their family and comrades.

D) They believe they are irrelevant to their lives.

Answer: C) They see them as part of their family and comrades.

Question 3:

Why do the fishermen consider themselves the "kings of the sea"?

A) They have royal bloodlines.

B) They have immense wealth.

C) They possess dominion over the sea and its riches.

D) They control the weather.

Answer: C) They possess dominion over the sea and its riches.

Question 4:

What do the fishermen have faith in when they encounter storms at sunset?

A) The sea-god's protection

B) The power of their boats

C) The strength of their fishing nets

D) The support of other fishermen

Answer: A) The sea-god's protection

Question 5:

What aspect of nature do the fishermen find sweeter than the shade of coconut groves and the scent of mango groves?

A) The sound of loved ones' voices during the full moon

B) The taste of the fish they catch

C) The beauty of the setting sun

D) The color of the sea during sunrise

Answer: A) The sound of loved ones' voices during the full moon

Question 6:

What do the fishermen want to explore by rowing to the edge of the verge?

A) The depths of the ocean

B) The boundaries of the village

C) The meeting point of the sea and the sky

D) The source of the sea-god's power

Answer: C) The meeting point of the sea and the sky

Question 7:

What does the poet compare the wind to at dawn?

A) A child that has cried all night

B) A powerful storm

C) A bird flying high in the sky

D) A thunderclap

Answer: A) A child that has cried all night

Question 8:

Why do the fishermen consider the sea as their mother?

A) Because they were born on a boat at sea

B) Because they love swimming in the sea

C) Because the sea provides them with their livelihood

D) Because they worship sea gods

Answer: C) Because the sea provides them with their livelihood

Question 9:

What is the mood of the poem?

A) Sad and mournful

B) Joyful and adventurous

C) Angry and vengeful

D) Peaceful and serene

Answer: B) Joyful and adventurous

Question 10:

What natural phenomenon guides the fishermen's journey at sea?

A) Tides

B) Rainbows

C)Thunderstorms

D) Solar eclipses

Answer: A) Tides

Short Questions from The Coromandel Fishers 

Question 1:

Who is the poet of the poem "The Coromandel Fishers"?

Answer: Sarojini Naidu

Question 2:

What is the poem celebrating?

Answer: The adventurous and perilous life of fishermen living along the Coromandel Coast.

Question 3:

What do the fishermen set free before embarking on their fishing journey?

Answer: Catamarans

Question 4:

What does the poet compare the wind to at dawn?

Answer: A child that has cried all night

Question 5:

What do the fishermen consider themselves in relation to the sea?

Answer: The kings of the sea

Question 6:

What do the fishermen have faith in when they encounter storms at sunset?

Answer: The sea-god's protection

Question 7:

What aspect of nature do the fishermen find sweeter than the shade of coconut groves and the scent of mango groves?

Answer: The sound of loved ones' voices during the full moon

Question 8:

Where do the fishermen row to at the end of the poem?

Answer: To the edge of the verge, where the low sky mates with the sea.

Question 9:

What is the mood of the poem?

Answer: Joyful and adventurous

Question 10:

What natural phenomenon guides the fishermen's journey at sea?

Answer: Tides

Long Questions Answers from The Coromandel Fishers 

Question 1:

In "The Coromandel Fishers," how does Sarojini Naidu portray the intimate connection between the fishermen and nature? Provide examples from the poem to illustrate this relationship.

Answer:

In "The Coromandel Fishers," Sarojini Naidu beautifully portrays the deep and intimate connection between the fishermen and nature. The fishermen consider the sea as their mother, the clouds as their brothers, and the waves as their comrades. This portrayal emphasizes the strong bond they share with the elements of nature. For instance, in the lines "The sea is our mother, the cloud is our brother, the waves are our comrades all," the poet personifies the sea, clouds, and waves, elevating them to familial roles, underscoring the closeness of this relationship. Such personification is further evident when the wind is compared to a child that has cried all night, finding solace in the embrace of dawn, creating a sense of empathy between the fishermen and nature. These poetic expressions beautifully capture the harmonious and interconnected existence of the fishermen with the natural world around them.

Question 2:

Describe the spirit of adventure and bravery exhibited by the fishermen in "The Coromandel Fishers." How does the poem showcase their fearless pursuit of the sea's bounty despite the dangers they may face?

Answer:

In "The Coromandel Fishers," the spirit of adventure and bravery among the fishermen is evident throughout the poem. The fishermen are depicted as fearless individuals who eagerly set out to sea to capture the "leaping wealth of the tide." The poet refers to them as the "kings of the sea," symbolizing their mastery and command over the vast ocean. Despite the challenges that come with venturing into the sea, especially during stormy times, the fishermen exhibit unwavering determination and confidence. They believe in the protection of the sea-god and draw strength from this belief. The line "He who holds the storm by the hair, will hide in his breast our lives" exemplifies their unwavering faith in the sea-god's guardianship. The poem highlights the fishermen's bravery and their willingness to face the unknown and embrace the exhilaration of sailing on the waves.

Question 3:

Discuss how Sarojini Naidu captures the beauty and serenity of nature in "The Coromandel Fishers." Cite specific lines or imagery from the poem that evoke a sense of tranquility and natural charm.

Answer:

In "The Coromandel Fishers," Sarojini Naidu skillfully captures the beauty and serenity of nature, painting a picturesque scene for readers to admire. The poet mentions the "shade of the cocoanut glade" and the "scent of the mango grove," which evoke a sense of peace and tranquility found in nature's idyllic spots. These lines transport readers to lush and serene environments, allowing them to experience the allure of such natural settings. Moreover, the imagery of the "low sky" meeting with the sea as the fishermen row to the edge of the verge exudes a sense of unity and harmony between the elements of the earth and the heavens. The imagery of the "dance of the wild foam's glee" and the "kiss of the spray" showcases the mesmerizing and joyous aspects of the sea, captivating the readers' senses and immersing them in the enchanting beauty of the ocean.

Question 4: (Themes: Love and Longing)

How does the theme of love and longing manifest in "The Coromandel Fishers"? Analyze the poet's depiction of the fishermen's affectionate connection to their loved ones.

Answer:

The theme of love and longing is subtly woven into "The Coromandel Fishers" through the fishermen's thoughts of their loved ones while being at sea. While they appreciate the sweetness of coconut groves and mango groves, the poem suggests that the sound of the voices of their loved ones during the full moon is even sweeter. This sentiment reflects the fishermen's affectionate attachment to their families and friends back home. Although the poem primarily emphasizes their adventurous spirit and love for the sea, the mention of loved ones' voices introduces an element of emotional connection and nostalgia. It humanizes the fishermen and portrays them not just as skilled sailors but also as individuals who cherish the warmth and support of their loved ones, making their return home after each voyage all the more meaningful.

Question 5:

Examine the role of faith and belief in "The Coromandel Fishers." How does the poem illustrate the fishermen's trust in divine protection during their perilous journeys at sea?

Answer:

Faith and belief play a significant role in "The Coromandel Fishers," as the poem showcases the fishermen's strong trust in divine protection during their perilous journeys at sea. When they encounter storms at sunset, the fishermen are undeterred as they believe in the sea-god's guardianship. The line "He who holds the storm by the hair, will hide in his breast our lives" conveys their unwavering conviction that the sea-god will shield them from harm and keep them safe. This faith in a higher power instills courage and determination in the fishermen, enabling them to venture fearlessly into the tumultuous waters. The theme of faith adds depth to the poem, highlighting the spiritual aspect of the fishermen's lives and underscoring their reliance on the supernatural for protection during their ventures at sea.