I Dream of Spices — by Raj Arumugam
Class: 6th Standard | Subject: English | Type: Poem | Syllabus: SCERT New Syllabus
About the Poet
Raj Arumugam is a contemporary poet of Indian origin known for writing simple, humorous, and relatable poetry. His poems often draw from everyday life experiences, making them accessible and enjoyable for young readers. In this poem, he captures a charming childhood moment involving a trip to a neighbourhood shop.
The Poem
My mother would say:
"Little boy Raj…
Go to Muthu's
and get some
cinnamon, betel leaves
and ginger and garlic."And so I go to the shops
singing all the way
and when Muthu asks me
what I'd want
I rattle off a list:
"Sesame seeds, onions
tomatoes and pickles"And back home,
Mother twists my ears
Ouch!
Summary and Analysis
The poem "I Dream of Spices" is a delightful and humorous poem about a young boy named Raj who is sent by his mother to a neighbourhood shop owned by Muthu. His mother asks him to buy specific spices and ingredients — cinnamon, betel leaves, ginger, and garlic. Raj happily sets off, singing on his way to the shop, showing his carefree and cheerful nature.