Read the poem.

the pardah nashin

by sarojini naidu

sarojini naidu was an indian poet and activist. known as the "nightingale of india," she advocated for india's independence, social welfare, and equal rights. the pardah is a religious and social practice of seclusion in some hindu or muslim communities of south asia. women are either physically separated from males using separate buildings, screens, walls, or curtains, or they may be concealed by loose clothing and veils.

her life is a revolving dream
of languid and sequestered ease;
her girdles and her fillets gleam
like changing fires on sunset seas;
her raiment is like morning mist,
shot opal, gold and amethyst.

from thieving light of eyes impure,
from coveting sun or wind's caress,
her days are guarded and secure
behind her carven lattices,
like jewels in a turbaned crest,
like secrets in a lover's breast.

but though no hand unsanctioned dares
unveil the mysteries of her grace,
time lifts the curtain unawares,
and sorrow looks into her face . .
who shall prevent the subtle years,
or shield a woman's eyes from tears?

sarojini naidu was politically active during india’s struggle to gain independence from british rule. she was also dedicated to bringing equal rights to women who were treated as a second class in indian society.

how does the custom of separating men and women with a “pardah” shape meaning in “the pardah nashin”?

by describing the dreamlike experience of the woman, the practice of pardah creates a mysterious mood; this makes the poem feel ancient and otherworldly.

by referencing an ancient custom throughout her poem and expressing the sorrow it causes, the speaker makes the argument that it is time for india to change and develop its own modern identity.

the speaker shows how this custom can be oppressive for women. this portrayal develops the speaker’s theme that women should be free and equal within society.

the speaker describes the beauty and power of women when they are protected from “thieving” eyes. she uses this custom to express her view that women must be treasured and protected.