An Attack on Inequality: Gopal Honnalgere’s poem, How to Tame a Pair of Chappals
While it has can be argued that art and literature should exist for its own sake, poetry has often been used for satire and social commentary. Its ability to evoke strong emotions using simple metaphors and imagery makes it a popular and memorable tool for raising public awareness around important issues. We came across one such poem, “How to Tame a New Pair of Chappals”, which uses the metaphor of a pair of slippers to deliver a stinging criticism against the exploitative capitalist machinery that treats workers like mute objects.
Little is known about its poet, Gopal Honnalgere (1942 - 2003), a once prominent English language poet who published six volumes in his lifetime. Unfortunately, all six volumes are now out of print and Honnalgere remains largely forgotten. He was born in Karnataka and later, taught art and writing at the Oasis School in Hyderabad. It is said that he spent his later years in abject poverty, however, we could not find any information about his circumstances or his demise.
Although the poem starts out on a lighter note, the last few lines are especially sinister as they talk about the emotional manipulation of workers to keep them in service of their greedy, apathetic masters.
first use them only for short walks
then gradually increase the distance
they should never know the amount of work they have to do
pull their tight straps loose
let them feel happiness
they are growing bigger
smear some old oil on the rough straps
let them feel they are anointed
now they are good subdued labourers
Now more than ever, this poem is relevant for its attack on social inequality and its call to labourers to fight for their rights.
Read the full poem below:
How to Tame a New Pair of Chappals
don't leave them together
don't allow them to talk to each other
they may form a trade union
don't at anytime leave them near
a wall clock, law books, a calendar, the national flag,
gandhi's portrait, or a newspaper
they may hear about
independence, satyagraha,
holidays, working hours, minimum wages, corruption
don't take them to your temple
they may at once know you are weak
your god is false and they may bite you
don't let them near your dining table
they may ask for food
or cast their evil eyes on your dinner
first use them only for short walks
then gradually increase the distance
they should never know the amount of work they have to do
pull their tight straps loose
let them feel happiness
they are growing bigger
smear some old oil on the rough straps
let them feel they are anointed
now they are good subdued labourers
ready to work overtime
for your fat feet