The Land of Cards: Stories, Poems and Plays for Children

by Radha Chakravarty, R (Tr) Chakravarty

Poet, novelist, painter, musician and Nobel Laureate, Rabindranath Tagore was one of modern India's greatest literary figures. This collection brings together some of his best works—poems, short stories and plays in one volume. Be it the wit, magic and lyricism of his poetry or the vividly etched social milieu of his stories, or the sheer power and vibrancy of his plays, Tagore's versatility and unceasing creativity come alive in these writings. The title play 'The Land of Cards' is a satire against the bondage of orthodox rules, while in 'The Post Office', a child suffocated by his confined existence dreams of freedom in the world outside. From a son's cherished desire to protect his mother in the poem 'Hero' to a fruit-seller longing for his daughter faraway in the story 'Kabuliwala', Tagore's works convey his humanism and his deep understanding of human relationships.

Genres: Classics, Indian Literature, Poetry

233 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 15, 2010

Reviews

[Sayan Chakraborty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes a short story like this can be the best way to end a hectic day.

[Syed · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Kingdom of Cards" stands as a searing, humanist rebuke against caste systems, most notably the Hindu caste system, as well as a condemnation of fascism, a critique woven just a year following Hitler's rise in 1932.

Venturing for adventure, a valiant prince stumbles upon an enigmatic realm, inhabited by animated cards bound by rigid rules and stratification, mirroring the oppressive Hindu caste structure. The prince's discerning gaze unravels these brittle laws, initiating an evolution that sees the cards shedding their lifeless facades. Dressed as humans, they begin to dance, sing, and even kindle romance, while their world undergoes a sweeping transformation.

Notably, it is the women who catalyze this metamorphosis, unearthing the innate desires that defy the constraints of tradition. Tagore, a harbinger of humanism, perceptively addresses women's subjugation and inequality, illuminating their pivotal role in reshaping the kingdom.

In this allegorical tapestry, Tagore delivers a resounding commentary on societal hierarchies, oppression, and the resilience of human spirit against systemic tyranny. The metamorphosis of the cards into their authentic selves underscores the power of emancipation, as the innate human spirit soars beyond the boundaries of orchestrated societal norms.

The following excerpt from the story clearly criticizes the Hindu Caste system.

…

“Up till now there had been nothing to disturb that island stillness. No new thing had ever happened. No discussion had ever been held.

“And then, of a sudden, the Three Companions appeared, thrown up by the sea,—and the Great Debate began. There were three main points of dispute.

“First, to what caste should these unclassed strangers belong? Should they rank with the Court Cards? Or were they merely lower-caste people, to be ranked with the Nines and Tens? No precedent could be quoted to decide this weighty question.

“Secondly, what was their clan? Had they the fairer hue and bright complexion of the Hearts, or was theirs the darker complexion of the Clubs? Over this question there were interminable disputes. The whole marriage system of the island, with its intricate regulations, would depend on its nice adjustment.

“Thirdly, what food should they take? With whom should they live and sleep? And should their heads be placed south-west, north-west, or only north-east? In all the Kingdom of Cards a series of problems so vital and critical had never been debated before."

[Andy Hickman · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Kingdom of Cards by Rabindranath Tagore
Bengali poet (1861-1941).
This tale is a sociological and political fable that addresses caste system and type-casting, using the pack of cards are the rigid framework of categorising people. Simple, clever and effective.
“The Three Companions obeyed no rules nor regulations. … They remained unimpressed altogether by the eternal gravity of those eternal regulations.” ***
..

[Adrija · Rating 5 out of 5]

A nice book about famous poem, short stories and plays alike by Rabindranath Tagore, each their own type. Humorous and interesting, it is overall a great read.

[Debrupa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a skillfully woven plot which is pertinent even today. Enjoyed reading.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful short story, would recommend everyone to read it atleast one time.

[Niraj Khandwala · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great selection for someone to get started with Tagore's writing

[Aaditya Anand · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5
this has to be one of the most unique things I've ever read.

[♫ ℬuggy ツ · Rating 2 out of 5]

Its good and humourous