A Critical Reflection on the Enigmatic Self in the Selected Poetry from East and West

Abstract

This study deals with the interpretation of the enigmatic self in the selected poetry of Bulleh Shah (1680-1753) and Walt Whitman (1819-1892). The aim is to explore the complex layers of self while living in this world of division, disorder, centrelessness, fragmentation, mistrust and doubt. This paper employs particular theoretical ideas of Soren Kierkegaard (1843) and Roland Barthes (1967) related to the multiple dimensions of self. The main objective is to shed light on the hidden aspects of enigmatic self in order to expose the inner reality of self as well as to deconstruct the established idea of human self. The multiplicity of voices in a text is explored though the reader by filling the gaps left by the author. This paper emphasizes that the spiritual reconstruction of the divided and disconnected self can be attained through accomplishing the spiritual insight and mystical enlightenment. This study analyzes that the mystical illumination can resolve the issue of division between individuals. Therefore, the deconstruction of self becomes a reconstruction and a potential site for resolving the psychological and spiritual crisis of the enigmatic self. Thus, the enigma of divided and disunited self can possibly be resolved by means of understanding self and other to explore the meaning of life and existence.