“When literature is published, invite the learner to read it” Klong Nirat Saiyok, written by His Royal Highness Prince Narathip Praphanphong: Analyzing the purpose and fresh perspectives on the Nirat poem after it was impacted by the West

Abstract

This research article aims to study the creative strategies in the composition and content characteristics of the "Khlong Nirat" (a type of Thai poetic form) titled "Nirat Sai Yok," a work by His Royal Highness Prince Narathip Praphanphong, as a "Khlong Nirat" influenced by Western ideas. His Royal Highness Prince Narathip Praphanphong composed this "Khlong Nirat" during a time when he faced political challenges and traveled to Sai Yok, Kanchanaburi Province, for relaxation in line with Western ideas popular among the Siamese elite in the reign of King Rama V. The study found that the poet created "Khlong Nirat Sai Yok" with forms and content that differ from those of "Khlong Nirat" from the Ayutthaya period and early Rattanakosin in four main aspects: 1) a daily recording of personal experiences following Western writing styles; 2) a presentation of the purpose of travel according to Western ideas; 3) the documentation of ethnic groups and local people as citizens of the nation-state; and 4) critiques of issues in the capital and western provinces that affect national development. This study contributes to expanding our comprehension of "Khlong Nirat" during the Rattanakosin era, especially during a significant social and cultural shift. Furthermore, it reflects the worldview of the poet as a member of the royal family who had performed important governmental duties in the country by expressing critical views on various social issues encountered during the journey.