Old Tamil Poetry

Thirukkural – 1114

If lilies could see, they’ll droop, convinced
‘we’re no match to this bedecked girl’s eyes’

காணின், குவளை கவிழ்ந்து நிலன் நோக்கும்-
‘மாணிழை கண் ஒவ்வேம்!’ என்று.

If Lily flowers could see, they will droop down saying we are no match to this beautiful jewel wearing girl’s eyes. Purple lily buds (குவளை மொட்டு) has been repeatedly used as a simile for eyes in Tamil literature. The picture below is of a trout lily bud.

காணின் – if (it) could see
குவளை – lily
மாணிழை – மாண் + இழை – glorious jewellery (wearing girl)
ஒவ்வேம் – ஒவ்வ மாட்டோம் – will not match

pic:roadsendnaturalist.com