Question

How does Ramanujan depict the rituals surrounding death in the poem?

• A. With a deep sense of reverence and spirituality
• B. By emphasizing the joy and celebration of life
• C. As mechanical and perfunctory, lacking emotional depth
• D. Through vivid and detailed imagery that evokes strong emotions

Answer 1

Answer:

C. As mechanical and perfunctory, lacking emotional depth

• In "Obituary," A.K. Ramanujan critiques the traditional death rituals, portraying them as routine and lacking true emotional connection.

• The poem reflects how these rituals, like cremation and scattering ashes, are performed mechanically without significant personal or emotional meaning.

• The speaker's detached tone throughout the poem reinforces this critique, suggesting that these rituals become mere formalities, serving cultural expectations rather than genuinely honoring the deceased.