Speaking of Siva by A. Ramanujan (Penguin Classics)

“Speaking of Siva” is a collection of poems translated by A. K. Ramanujan. The original poems were written in Kannada by the revered 18th-century Indian poet, Basava. Basava was a philosopher, statesman, and a key figure in the Bhakti movement in South India. The Bhakti movement emphasized personal devotion to a god, and in the case of Basava, it was focused on the god Shiva.

The poems in “Speaking of Siva” explore themes of devotion, mysticism, and social equality. Basava’s poetry is known for its simplicity and accessibility, making it deeply resonant with a broad audience. In these poems, he expresses his deep devotion to Lord Shiva, often in the form of vachanas, which are short, rhythmic, and free-verse compositions.

A. K. Ramanujan, a renowned Indian poet, translator, and scholar of Indian literature, translated Basava’s vachanas into English, introducing the work to a wider audience. Ramanujan’s translations are praised for their faithfulness to the original texts and their ability to convey the emotional and spiritual depth of Basava’s poetry.

“Speaking of Siva” provides readers with a glimpse into the devotional and philosophical richness of the Bhakti tradition in South India and the enduring influence of Basava’s poetry. The collection is a valuable resource for those interested in Indian literature, philosophy, and the cultural history of the region.