Kalithogai

Kalithogai is a classical Tamil poetic work, considered one of the Eight Anthologies (Ettuthokai) of Sangam literature. It is believed to have been composed by Nallanthuvanar. The work is a collection of 100 poems that primarily deal with the theme of love, specifically the separation and reunion of lovers.

The poems in Kalithogai are unique in their structure and meter, employing a distinct verse form known as 'kalippaa'. This meter is characterized by its brisk rhythm and lively cadence, making the poems suitable for recitation and performance. The language used is rich and evocative, employing vivid imagery and metaphors to describe the emotions and experiences of lovers.

Kalithogai is divided into five sections, each dedicated to a different aspect of love and its associated landscapes, such as the arid lands (palai), the fertile plains (marutham), the mountainous regions (kurinji), the coastal areas (neithal), and the pastoral tracts (mullai). Each section presents a series of poems that explore the nuances of love within these specific environments.

The work offers valuable insights into the social customs, beliefs, and emotional lives of the people during the Sangam period. It is celebrated for its artistic merit, its profound exploration of human relationships, and its contribution to the rich tradition of Tamil poetry. The poems are often characterized by their realism and their ability to capture the subtleties of romantic love.