SMILE OF THE RICE GODDESS by Chiranan Pitpreecha

Story Analysis by Shaira Mae S. Umayam

REFLECTION 

The poem contains the significant relationship of its tradition pertaining to its country. Chiranan Pitpreecha's exquisite poem "Smile of the Rice Goddess" honors Thailand's long-standing farming culture. It describes cooperative groups of farmers, particularly women, pounding rice with pestles using vivid language. Unity and kindness, which are essential to the community and reflect the entire country, are shown through collaboration.You can almost hear the repetitive beating of the pestles and their impact in the poem because of the imaginative preference of words which sound like the events they portray.  The poem also emphasizes the vital role played by women farmers, who often don't receive enough recognition for their contributions to the agricultural field, which is essential to Thailand. These women are a symbol of toughness, resilience, and unity which has enabled Thailand to prosper for many years. In conclusion, "Smile of the Rice Goddess" is a powerful tribute to the farmers in the fields, the enduring farming traditions, and the entire country of Thailand. It serves as a reminder of the significance of keeping up with these traditions.

THEMES 

According to the poem of the “Smile of the Rice Goddess” by Chiranan Pitpreecha, the harmony is reflected in  the rhythmic sound of the pestles and the synchronized movements of the farmers while the female farmers are working together to crush the rice. It also emphasizes the teamwork of each worker, especially women empowerment and highlights how they should communicate to each other with kindness and support. In terms of agricultural tradition it showcases the thailand tradition that is focused on its countries cultivation, in which pestle crushing is one of their traditional methods in rice milling and the significance of it to its country. It can be shown here the selflessness and dedication of the hard work of women. 

CULTURE CONTEXT 

The cultural context of the poem is all about Thailand and how essential rice cultivation is there. Many Thai women dedicate a lot of effort in growing rice, which makes them the farmers and super heroes of the nation. This poem is enormous for these amazing, hard-working women. Additionally, it discusses how pleasant and tranquil Thai society is.In Thailand, agriculture thrives, and rice is the main crop. Rice is an integral part of the locals who cherish it.  

SYMBOLISM 

The poem "SMILE OF THE RICE GODDESS" contains deep symbolism that explores Thai society and culture. A significant symbol of the essential significance of rice in the lives of the Thai people is the adored figure of the rice goddess. The very name, "SMILE OF THE RICE GODDESS," indicates that the goddess herself is gracing the farmers' labor, and their camaraderie and mutual kindness reflect the god's helpful smile. The pestles and mortars serve meaningful functions in the poem, representing the farmers' persistent commitment and endless efforts in their difficult jobs.

LITERARY TECHNIQUE 

Imagey: The poem shows vivid imagery describing women pounding rice and the activities in the poem. The reader can visualize the place or how the events are happening in the poem. 

Repetition: “Tuk Tuk Tup” and “Taralaek” adds a rhythmic in the poem, that describes the repetitive movement of the character in the poem. 

Metaphor: The poem uses metaphor to compare the woman’s strength to her “skillful legs”  and her actions to a “rice- dance”. This is considered a metaphor because this does not use”like” to compare the two objects. 

Personification: The “goddess of rice”, which pertains to the women in the rice field.