Through vivid imagery and emotionally evocative language, Bhatt captures the complex emotions associated with leaving. The poem begins with the speaker directly addressing the one who is leaving. The speaker describes how the departing person becomes a "bird" that "flies out of my nest," emphasizing the sense of loss and the void left behind.
The poem delves into the tension between the desire to cherish and preserve what is being left and the acknowledgment that change is inevitable. The speaker grapples with the idea that the departing one is now "no longer mine." The use of the possessive pronoun highlights the speaker's emotional attachment and the struggle to let go.
Bhatt emphasizes the fleeting nature of moments by comparing the departing person to "a cloud" that disperses and "leaves no trace." This comparison underscores the impermanence of life and the realization that some things cannot be held on to no matter how much we may wish otherwise.
The speaker also reflects on the impact of departure on the place or space left behind. The departure of a loved one or the loss of a memory are metaphorically depicted as "scars" on the landscape. These scars serve as reminders of the deep and enduring connections formed with others and with specific places.
In the final lines, Bhatt offers a sense of acceptance and understanding. The speaker acknowledges that "some go away to come back," suggesting that departures may not always be permanent and that there is hope for reunions. The poem ends with a subtle sense of optimism, leaving readers with a glimmer of hope amidst the bittersweetness of departure.
Overall, "One Who Goes Away" portrays the universal human experience of loss, change, and the bittersweet nature of letting go. Sujata Bhatt's poignant imagery and evocative language capture the complexities of departure, leaving readers with a profound sense of empathy for the emotions associated with leaving or saying goodbye.