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General Editor's Preface
It is a matter of no small comfort that within two years of the publication of Prakrit Verses In Sanskrit Works On Poetics Volume I: Text, it has been possible to bring out its companion volume, Volume II : Translation (with Introduction, Glossary and Notes). The translation, which is neither free nor literal, aims at accuracy, lucidity and readability. The Introduction gives sufficient information about the Prakrit poetic works from which Sanskrit alamkarikas (literary critics, thinkers) have drawn their illustrative verses, brings out the importance of Prakrit poetry and meets the charge of obscenity that was brought against Prakrit poetry. The Glossary explains mostly the unfamiliar or unusual words with their corresponding Sanskrit terms and English equivalents. The Notes lay emphasis on the aesthetic beauty of the Prakrit verses and try to explain everything concerning them without which the full import of the verses would not be clear.
It is hoped that this volume will contribute to a much better understanding and fuller appreciation and enjoyment of Prakrit poetry. It goes without saying that it is for the sahrdayas - sensitive and sympathetic readers and critics to judge how far this companion volume fulfils its primary objective.
- General Editor
