Konkani Wordsworth: Tracing Wordsworthian Romanticism in the Lyrics of Wily Rebimbus

This article examines the presence of Romantic features in the lyrical compositions of the renowned Konkani poet and musician Wilfy Rebimbus and attempts to establish a comparative framework between his poetic vision and the Romantic philosophy of William Wordsworth. While Wordsworth wrote within the cultural and historical context of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century England, Rebimbus composed his lyrics within the socio-cultural environment of the Konkani-speaking coastal communities of India. Despite these geographical and temporal differences, both poets reveal similarities in their treatment of nature, rural life, and human emotions. The study outlines the major characteristics of Romantic poetry such as the celebration of nature, the emphasis on individual emotion and imagination, the portrayal of common people, and the importance of solitude and introspection. This article analyzes the lyrics of Wilfy Rebimbus to demonstrate how these Romantic ideals are reflected in his works. Rebimbus’s lyrics portray nature as a living presence closely connected with human emotions, where natural elements mirror the joys and sorrows of life. His work shows affinity with Wordsworth’s belief that nature is a moral and spiritual teacher. The article highlights Rebimbus’s portrayal of rural life, paralleling Wordsworth’s focus on ordinary people, and shows how natural imagery expresses emotions such as love, longing, hope, and faith. Whilst Rebimbus has not consciously imitated Wordsworth, the similarities between them reveal a shared Romantic sensibility. The article concludes that Wilfy Rebimbus can be considered a “Konkani Wordsworth,” as his lyrics embody key Romantic principles such as love for nature, emotional sincerity, and harmony between humanity and the natural world.