History of Bengali Language and Literature c7.s2.33

c7.s2.33

The poet begins with Rādhā's বয়সন্ধি or dawn of youth. This is the time when she is to fall in love with Kṛṣṇa. She has reached an age when one would not mistake her for a child, yet would hesitate to call her a women. If at times she moves with the blithe steps of a child, she immediately mends her motion and walks slowly, with the grace of a maiden. The merry ring of her laughter may remind one of a child's voice, but she controls herself quickly, and a sweet smile such as befits a modest damsel is displayed in the soft curve of her coral lips. The beauty that has come so newly to her person is a surprise to herself. The freedom of childhood is gone; and her eyes become downcast if a whisper is heard. While busy with her toilet, in the company of her maidens, she silently listens to their talk of love; and if any of them notices this, she rebukes her, with mingled smiles and tears.