MYTHS AND TALES

The myths implanted in our DNA
Over centuries spanning generations
Find their way into our consciousness
Involuntarily through our traditions

Do we ever question or realise
A specific rule or behaviour
As to why we follow blindly
Thinking it has existed forever

Some of these have got encoded
As a norm for civilised behaviour
While some ‘do nots’ discarded
With the label of ‘never ever’

Why is the wedding gown white
Why is black the symbol of death
Why do we tinkle glasses
Why do we bury the dead

Why in some other cultures
The reverse may be true
While they cremate the dead
And white the mark of widowhood

Neighbours have fought
And nations have gone to war
Over myths etched on stone
Garnishing our mental decor

Do we need to rethink
Perhaps draw new boundaries
Of the tales which have governed our lives
Right through the centuries

Subir Chakraborty / 17th Oct 2018


6 thoughts on “MYTHS AND TALES

  1. Yes, there is a need to relook at some of myths & tales. However, our thinking faculty alone may not provide the answer as it has little or no access to the recesses of the subconscious mind. In the old days, when the human intellect was not so developed, they relied great deal on the support of the subtle forces for their survival which they could discern better than what we are capable of today. The so called myths & tales are not necessarily without any basis. However, over time not only have these been distorted but acquired a rigid structure without the knowledge of the source. In the absence of correct understandiing, these rigid attitudes and misuse of power are the main causes of conflict and wars.

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