Love Poems in Modern Thai Nirat (The Siam Society)
The article “Love Poems in Modern Thai Nirat” by Suchitra Chongstitvatana explores how modern Thai poets have transformed the traditional form of Nirat, which historically focused on personal lamentation during a journey. By examining works by Angkhan Kalayanapong, Naowarat Pongpaiboon, and Paiwarin Khaongam, the article demonstrates how these poets have expanded Nirat’s themes to include broader expressions of love, such as love for nature, homeland, and cultural values. This shift reflects a more selfless and spiritual approach, aiming to address modern societal concerns.
These modern interpretations maintain the Nirat structure but infuse it with new significance, making it relevant to contemporary issues. Angkhan’s work focuses on love for nature as a remedy for societal crises, while Naowarat expresses a serene love for the homeland, blending appreciation with subtle lamentation. Paiwarin, on the other hand, uses Nirat to mourn the loss of traditional values while offering hope for the future through an understanding of the past. Together, these works show how Nirat has evolved into a powerful tool for cultural reflection and preservation.
The Thailand Foundation believes that Thai culture is vibrant and thriving, thanks to the country’s inherent value of openness. This openness allows Thai art and culture to continually evolve in fascinating ways, reflecting both tradition and modern influences. We invite you to read the full article to explore how these cultural dynamics are expressed in modern Thai Nirat and how they contribute to the ongoing richness of Thai literary traditions.
Author: Suchitra Chongstitvatana
* This article was published in the Journal of Siam Society and is being shared on the Thailand Foundation Website with permission from The Siam Society.
