Quote by W. H. Auden, poem titled Partiti
But in seven weeks it was done, the frontiers decided.A continent for better or worse divided.The next day he sailed for England, where he quickly forgotThe case as a good lawyer must. Return he would not,Afraid, as he told his Club, that he might get shot....penned after Lord Mountbatten entrusted Sir Cyril Radcliffe, with drawing up the boundaries between India & Pakistan.
Summary
This quote refers to the rapid decision-making and division of the Indian subcontinent into India and Pakistan by Sir Cyril Radcliffe, at the request of Lord Mountbatten. The quote suggests that Radcliffe completed this task in just seven weeks and then promptly left for England, quickly forgetting about the consequences of his actions. It implies that he might have been fearful of the potential violence and backlash resulting from his boundary-drawing, as he expressed concerns about getting shot. The quote highlights the speed and weight of the decision, as well as the potential consequences and responsibility borne by those involved.
Topics
Borders
Liked the quote? Share it with your friends.
