A History of Indian Literature v1.c8.s2.117

v1.c8.s2.117

Some pearls of lyric poetry, which appeal to us as much through their fine comprehension of the beauties of Nature, as through their flowery language, are to be found among the songs to Sūrya (the Sun), to Parjanya (the Rain-god), to the Maruts (the Storm-gods) and above all to Uṣas (the Dawn). In the hymns addressed to the latter the singers vie with each other in magnificent metaphors which are intended to depict the splendour of the rising dawn. Gleaming she approaches like a maiden decked by her mother, who is proud of her body. She puts on splendid garments, like a dancer, and reveals her bosom to the mortal. Clothed in light the maiden appears in the East and unveils her charms. She opens the gates of heaven and, radiant, steps forth out of them. Again and again her charms are compared with those of a woman inviting love. Thus we read (Ṛv. V, 80, 5.6)¹ :