"Vocation" is a poem by Rabindranath Tagore, a Bengali poet, philosopher, and polymath who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913. In this poem, Tagore reflects on the nature of one's calling or vocation in life, and the importance of following one's passions and pursuits.
The poem begins with the speaker asking, "Where is the life we have lost in living?" This line suggests that the speaker feels that many people are caught up in the routine and mundanity of daily life, and have lost sight of what truly matters and brings them joy. The speaker then goes on to ask, "Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge?" This line suggests that people often become so focused on acquiring knowledge and understanding that they forget to use this knowledge to better their own lives and the lives of those around them.
The speaker then encourages the reader to follow their vocation, or calling in life, saying, "The eye was placed where one ray should fall, that it might testify of that particular ray." This suggests that everyone has a unique purpose and talent, and it is important to use these gifts in service to others. The speaker also advises the reader to follow their passions and pursuits, saying, "Follow your own bent, do the work for which you were cut out."
In the final stanza, the speaker reflects on the importance of living a meaningful and fulfilling life, saying, "The heart was placed in the body to pump blood." This suggests that the heart, and by extension, one's passions and pursuits, are what give life meaning and purpose. The speaker concludes the poem by urging the reader to "maintain your own bent, lest you be killed and rendered useless." This suggests that it is important to stay true to oneself and one's passions, even if it means going against the norm or facing challenges.
Overall, "Vocation" is a thought-provoking poem that encourages readers to follow their passions and pursue their calling in life. It reminds us that everyone has a unique purpose and talent, and it is important to use these gifts in service to others. It also suggests that it is essential to live a meaningful and fulfilling life, and to stay true to oneself and one's passions, even if it means going against the norm or facing challenges.