Significance of the Title 'Can You Make Out?' by Aishwarya Jijikumar

The poem ‘Can You Make Out’ by Kumar Vikal is of enormous significance in the contemporary world. It is the reflection of hardships and depredations faced by many around the world and in India in the name of religion, caste, creed and culture. The title ‘Can You Make Out’ hints at the relevance of the issue and it points out that each individual should try to resolve the crisis and we should stand united despite the differences. It will make a huge impact on the society and thus it initiates the beginning of a better tomorrow. India is a country that is an amalgamation of several culture, religion, diversities and cuisines. India had witnessed a bloodletting partition seventy -five years ago as a consequence of rising tensions between different religious communities. Even after Independence we have a long way to go. Religious harmony is a concept that indicates there is love and affection between different religions. It is fundamental in the development of any country. However in the present scenario we are being divided on the basis of religion, caste, creed and culture and it is high time to break this shackle of exclusion.

                   The poet places the pertinent context as the heart of the poem and he asks his readers several questions such as whether the blood scattered in the road in the aftermath of a riot reveals the religion of the victim, whether the dress code or the smell of food discloses his culture and so on. These questions matters and it emphasizes the fact that it is the common man who is bearing the miseries and angst. The poet stresses on the importance of perseverance and tolerance and he underlies the fact that human being is important than religion. The title itself is a question that urges our wholesome endeavour and assistance in bringing out peace and equity for all. ‘We Can Make Out’ if we stay unanimously and work together without letting the disparities part us.