The concept of existentialism, deeply immersed in the realm of philosophy, finds its way into the poetic arts as a response to the challenges of meaning and reality. This philosophical doctrine, founded by Jean-Paul Sartre in 1946, posits that existence precedes essence, suggesting that individuals must create their own meaning and value in a universe that seems indifferent to their endeavors. In poetry, this concept is often explored by poets who use their work as a canvas to visualize the human condition and the quest for meaning in an often-hostile world.
Existentialism in poetry is characterized by its focus on the inherent humanity of the speaker and the exploration of the essential role of choice in human existence. This is particularly evident in the works of Samuel Beckett and Patrick Kavanagh, whose poetry is rich with themes of isolation, alienation, and the pursuit of meaning in a purposeless life. Beckett's "Whispers of Goodbye" and Kavanagh's "The Great God Pan" are prime examples of this genre, showcasing the poet's reflection on the human condition and their place in the universe.
Furthermore, existential poetry often delves into themes of love, freedom, and the search for identity. This is evident in the work of Rilke and Plath, whose poetry is deeply personal and reflects on the speaker's emotional journey and the nature of personal change. Rilke's "Book of Hours" and Plath's "Ariel"?s Lament" are poignant examples of this, exploring themes of loss, isolation, and the need to find meaning in a chaotic world.
Existentialism in poetry is not limited to the works of Beckett, Kavanagh, and Plath, though. It also manifests in the poetry of contemporary poets like Tom Leonard, who explores the theme of existential freedom in his fourth poetry collection, "Access to Silence." This collection, with its unique experimental forms and visual imagery, serves as a visual representation of the speaker's journey towards self-acceptance and freedom, even in the face of social conventions and societal expectations.
In essence, existentialism in poetry is a response to the challenges of meaning and reality in the modern world, offering a profoundly humanist perspective on the human condition. Through their work, poets are able to articulate the existential quest for meaning and authenticity in an often-unforgiving universe, thus enriching the discourse around the human experience.