Forbidden Desires Unveiled: Ondaatje's Cinnamon Peeler Analysis

Categories: Poems

Analysis, Pages 4 (863 words)

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Mark Twain once remarked, "There is a charm about the forbidden that makes it unspeakably desirable." In Michael Ondaatje's poem, "The Cinnamon Peeler," a similar sentiment permeates the verses as the speaker expresses an intense longing for his beloved. The poem unveils a complex narrative where societal constraints, individuality, and the dominance of gender roles converge to shape a forbidden love story. This essay delves into the themes of forbidden love, individuality, and male dominance in Ondaatje's work, unraveling the layers of meaning embedded in this poignant dramatic monologue.

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Forbidden Love: Societal Constraints and Passionate Yearning

Ondaatje's poem is a dramatic monologue that delves into the yearning of the speaker to be with his beloved, a desire thwarted by societal constraints. The speaker implies a caste disparity by hypothetically stating, "If I were a cinnamon peeler..." (1), suggesting that he occupies a lower caste than his beloved. The central narrative revolves around the impossibility of their union, adding an element of forbidden love that intensifies the emotional landscape of the poem.

As the speaker explores this forbidden desire, he engages in a form of role-playing, envisioning an idealized marriage where their passion is so potent that it leaves a discernible scent. However, societal norms dictate that they cannot be together openly before marriage, as the cinnamon scent would mark her as "the cinnamon peeler’s wife" (17-18). The speaker becomes entangled in a seductive fantasy, allowing the intensity of his desire to overshadow the harsh reality that they can never be together.

The exploration of forbidden love in "The Cinnamon Peeler" extends beyond the societal barriers to reveal the individuality and independence the lovers seek. Sneaking around to be with each other, the speaker and his beloved defy familial and cultural values, emphasizing their need for autonomy. The very act of concealing their love becomes an assertion of individuality, challenging the predefined roles assigned by society.

Individuality Amidst Male Dominance

Embedded within the poem is a recurring theme of male dominance, manifested through societal roles and the speaker's possessiveness. Ondaatje paints a picture of a society where women are defined by the men in their lives. The cinnamon peeler's wife, lime burner's daughter, and grass cutter's wife are all characterized by their relationships to men, highlighting the pervasive influence of male dominance.

This theme of male dominance is palpable in the speaker's possessive language and actions. Describing how their love leaves a scent, he declares, "Your breasts and shoulders would reek" (5), signifying a possessive marking of his beloved. The scent becomes a metaphor for ownership, and the woman's identity is overshadowed by her connection to the cinnamon peeler.

Furthermore, the poem explores the consequences of this possessiveness on the female character's sense of self. She questions the speaker's commitment and wonders if he is faithful when they are not together. The poem suggests a societal expectation that women should be defined by their relationships, leaving them with no trace of individuality when separated from their partners.

The Sensory Journey: Symbolism and Imagery

Ondaatje employs rich symbolism and vivid imagery to convey the themes of passion and possessiveness in "The Cinnamon Peeler." The scent of cinnamon takes on multiple layers of meaning, representing both the physical act of desire and the metaphorical mark of ownership. The strong, luxurious scent becomes a symbol of the speaker's intense sexual desire for his wife.

The choice of cinnamon as a symbol is significant. Beyond its passionate connotations, cinnamon is economically beneficial in Ondaatje's hometown of Sri Lanka, adding layers of cultural and economic symbolism to the poem. The poet uses olfactory imagery strategically, emphasizing the sense of smell as closely tied to memory and desire.

Symbolism extends to the occupations mentioned in the poem, such as the cinnamon peeler, lime burner, and grass cutter. These professions not only contribute to the olfactory richness of the narrative but also serve as metaphors for the characters' roles and societal expectations. The cinnamon peeler's ownership of his wife is reinforced by the scent that lingers on her, marking her as his possession.

The sensory journey in the poem extends to touch and feel, allowing readers to visualize and experience the passion between the speaker and his beloved. The vivid descriptions of touch and smell engage the reader's imagination, creating a sensory experience that enhances the overall impact of the poem.

Conclusion: Forbidden Desires and Societal Constraints

In conclusion, Michael Ondaatje's "The Cinnamon Peeler" is a masterful exploration of forbidden desires, individuality, and male dominance. The poem unravels the complexities of a love constrained by societal norms, revealing the tension between the speaker's yearning for autonomy and the pervasive influence of male dominance. The rich symbolism and sensory imagery add depth to the narrative, allowing readers to delve into the intricate layers of passion and possession.

Ondaatje's use of the dramatic monologue form intensifies the focus on the speaker's thoughts and emotions, providing a nuanced exploration of forbidden love. The poem challenges societal expectations, highlighting the struggle for individuality within the constraints of a male-dominated world. As readers navigate the sensory journey crafted by Ondaatje, they become witnesses to the profound complexities of human desires and the societal forces that shape them.