Tagore begins the poem by describing the act of creation as a process of discovery, in which the artist finds their inspiration in the beauty and wonder of the natural world. He writes:
"In the deep heart of the poet's soul,
Where the golden rays of dawn first break,
There blooms the flower of beauty,
And the song of the morning bird takes flight."
Here, Tagore suggests that creativity is not something that can be forced or controlled, but rather something that arises spontaneously from within the artist's soul, in response to the external world.
He goes on to describe how the artist's experiences and interactions with the world shape and influence their creative output. He writes:
"The poet's heart is a mirror,
Reflecting the joys and sorrows of the world.
His songs are the echoes of our own hearts,
And his words are the colors of our dreams."
In these lines, Tagore emphasizes the idea that the artist's work is not simply a product of their individual imagination, but rather a reflection of the collective human experience. The artist acts as a conduit for the emotions, thoughts, and experiences of others, giving voice to the unspoken feelings of the world.
Tagore concludes the poem by asserting that true authorship is not limited to the individual artist, but rather extends to the entire universe itself. He writes:
"The poet is not the owner of his songs,
But a mere instrument in the hands of the Infinite.
His words are not his own,
But the voice of the eternal."
Here, Tagore suggests that creativity is not something that belongs solely to the individual, but rather a universal force that flows through all of creation. The artist is simply a channel for this creative energy, allowing it to find expression in the world.
In "Authorship," Rabindranath Tagore presents a profound and expansive vision of creativity, one that encompasses both the individual artist and the wider universe. He reminds us that true authorship is not about claiming ownership of one's work, but rather about recognizing the interconnectedness of all things and the role of the artist as a vessel for the creative force of the universe.