107. Dr. Fed Mathew

Abstract 107
Dr Fed Mathew                                                                                                                                             

LATTER DAY PSALMS :A DISSENTING NOTE AGAINST MAINSTREAM POLITICAL DISCOURSE

Abstract

A postcolonial reading of Latter-day Psalms based upon the Edward Said’s observations  on the dangers of nativism. Shiv Sena under Bal Thakerey  has recaptured the cultural space in Maharashtra under the great patron Shivaji. The cultural initiative in the form of nativism began to assume hegemonic  proportions through discursive practices especially Marata legacy. The imperialistic attitudes of maratian nativism has created great apprehensions in the hearts of non Maharashtrians. Ezekiel , once an ardent supporter of Indian ethos , strikes a dissenting note through his collection latter-day psalms. The poet’s  sense of insecurity at this extreme  of nativism in Bombay  is beautifully foregrounded in this collection.  Psalms are originally folklores, orally transmitted, cherishing the myth  and celebrate  the exploits of great  leaders . Ezekiel seemingly parodies the collection of collections by culling out the significant nine psalms to express his dissent against the cultural imperialism ,  maharashtrian political ideology and hegemony.