Rabindranath Tagore, the eminent Nobel laureate, is celebrated for his profound literary works that involve human emotions and societal norms. Among his many poignant short stories, 'The Home Coming' stands out as a timeless exploration of familial ties, cultural identity, and the evolving dynamics within relationships. In this blog post, we explore a journey through this masterpiece, looking at its themes, characters, and underlying messages that resonate with readers across generations. Below is a detailed summary of the story.
Table of Contents
Summary of The Home Coming
Mischief at the River
The story opens with Phatik Chakravorti, a fourteen-year-old boy known as the ringleader among his village friends. One day, he proposes a naughty plan to roll a heavy log from the riverbank, believing it will be fun. However, his younger brother, Makhan, sits on the log, refusing to move. Phatik, furious, commands the boys to roll both the log and Makhan together, leading to chaos as Makhan screams and runs home after being knocked off.
Conflict with Family
Upon returning home, Phatik faces his mother's anger, who accuses him of hitting Makhan. Despite Phatik's protests of innocence, Makhan lies to their mother, claiming Phatik did hit him. In a fit of rage, Phatik retaliates against Makhan, which only escalates the conflict. Just then, a grey-haired stranger arrives, revealing himself to be Phatik's uncle, Bishamber. The family rejoices at the reunion, but Bishamber learns of Phatik's troublesome behaviour.
A New Opportunity
Bishamber offers to take Phatik to Calcutta to educate him alongside his own children. Phatik's mother eagerly agrees, relieved to be rid of him. Phatik, filled with excitement, eagerly accepts the offer, saying, "Oh, yes, uncle!” He prepares to leave, generously bequeathing his belongings to Makhan.
Life in Calcutta
In Calcutta, Phatik meets his aunt, who is displeased with the addition of another boy in the household. She finds Phatik to be a nuisance, and he feels neglected and out of place. Phatik longs for his village home, reminiscing about the freedom he once had: "He remembered the glorious meadow where he used to fly his kite all day long." He struggles academically and socially, feeling increasingly isolated.
Desperation and Illness
As Phatik's situation worsens, he loses his lesson book and faces severe punishment from his teacher. His condition deteriorates, and he fears becoming a burden to his aunt. One day, he disappears during a rainstorm, prompting a frantic search. Eventually, the police find him, and he is brought back home, weak and feverish.
Climax and Reunion
Phatik's fever worsens, and he becomes delirious, calling out for his mother. Bishamber, concerned, whispers that he has sent for her. When Phatik's mother arrives, she is frantic, crying out, "Phatik, my darling, my darling." In a moment of clarity, Phatik responds, "Mother, the holidays have come," signifying his deep longing for home and the love of his mother.
The story concludes with Phatik's mother by his side, highlighting the themes of family, belonging, and the innocence of childhood. Through his journey, Phatik experiences the harsh realities of growing up, ultimately yearning for the comfort and safety of home.
Themes Explored: The Home Coming by Rabindranath Tagore
The Home Coming" explores several themes that resonate with readers even today:
The Irreplaceable Value of Home and Family
"The Home Coming" by Rabindranath Tagore paints a powerful portrait of the significance of home and family. Phatik's initial restlessness and yearning for a life beyond his village blinds him to the comfort and love that already surround him. His journey to the city serves as a harsh lesson. The excitement he craved turns into disappointment and loneliness. It's only after experiencing the harsh realities of life outside his familiar circle that Phatik truly appreciates the value of his home. His overwhelming sense of regret and homesickness further underscore the importance of his family.
Longing and Belonging
The narrative shows the universal human desire to belong. Phatik feels isolated and misunderstood within his family, especially when compared to his seemingly favoured brother. This sense of not belonging fuels his desire to escape. However, upon reaching the city, Phatik finds himself even more isolated, longing for the familiar comfort of his village life. Tagore portrays this theme through Phatik's contrasting experiences. In his village, Phatik feels like an outsider within his own family. Yet, in the bustling city, he's a complete stranger. This contrast highlights the human need for connection and a sense of belonging.
Coming of Age and Self-Discovery
The story is of Phatik's growth and self-discovery. As a teenager, he grapples with feelings of restlessness and a desire for independence. His impulsive decision to leave with his uncle reflects his naivety and lack of understanding about the cruel side of the world. Through his journey, Phatik experiences valuable lessons. He learns the harsh realities of life outside his familiar surroundings. Even when he learns the importance, it is too late for him to go back home. Death comes to him eventually.
Message of The Home Coming
The message of Rabindranath Tagore's "The Home Coming" is multifaceted, but it can be summed up as the importance of appreciating what you have, particularly the love and security of the family.
Grass Isn't Always Greener
Phatik's journey to the city is a classic case of wanting something you don't have. He romanticizes the excitement of city life, but upon arrival, he discovers it's not all sunshine and roses. This highlights the importance of appreciating the good things you already have in your life, like a loving family. Phatik’s fate is the end of his life where he finally meets his mother for the last time, but it doesn’t save his life. He abodes his soul to the final homecoming, which is death. Phatik goes through a tragic end.
Conclusion: The Home Coming by Rabindranath Tagore
The Home Coming by Rabindranath Tagore is a beautiful example for children to understand the importance of the value of the parents. Tagore’s way of storytelling spellbound every reader with the deep message that he tries to give away to the world. The death of Phatik has the deeper meaning of the home that he tries searching everywhere. He gets ill and faces death in one of many attempts to escape from his uncle’s house.
The themes explored in the story, such as the irreplaceable value of home and family, the universal human desire to belong, and the journey of coming of age and self-discovery, are rich and thought-provoking. Tagore's portrayal of Phatik's longing for a life beyond his village and his subsequent realization of the importance of home and family resonates deeply with readers. The message of appreciating what you have, particularly the love and security of the family, is a timeless lesson that stands out in this masterpiece. The story serves as a poignant reminder that the grass isn't always greener on the other side and highlights the significance of cherishing our current blessings.
