Kagga 65
D. V. Gundappa · 1887–1975 · from the Kannada original
Transliteration
pustakadi doretarivu mastakadi taLeda maNichittadoLu beLedarivu taru taLeda puSHpavastu sakSHatkaravatarIkSHNeyindashastratanadindalla -- MANKUTIMMA
Interpretation
The search for eternal Truth is a deep introspective process
Information gleaned from various books is akin to a gem stuck on one's forehead -- it is superficially interesting; but doesn't benefit either the person or others
On the other hand, knowledge that emerges out of introspection & comtemplation is deep
It is akin to a flower on a tree; not only is it aesthetically attractive; but also spreads it fragrance around
Mankutimma, it is only when a person makes the effort to go beyond the words found in books; looks inward, thinks deeply, challenges the obvious that the real meaning emerges out and only then can the real Truth be deciphered.
Did this poetry & its translation speak to you?