Graduation Year
2024
Document Type
Senior Thesis
Degree
Bachelor of Arts
Primary Major
English
Primary Minor
Business
Thesis Advisor
Joan Baranow, PhD
Abstract
“Before,” “In Existence,” “After,” is a collection of poetry that explores the cyclical nature of human existence through three distinct phases. Each section reflects a unique aspect of life’s journey: “Before” imagines a pre-existence state where souls reside in stillness, untouched by pain or desire; “In Existence” captures the raw experience of living, from birth to growth, struggle, and loss; and “After” reflects on endings, transformation, and the possibility of rebirth. While the poems draw from personal experiences, they are crafted to evoke universal emotions, inviting readers to confront themes of fear, hope, love, and grief. The collection is inspired by a range of literary and media influences, including Maya Angelou’s reflections on death, the existential themes of Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time, and the concept of "The Empty" from Supernatural. Drawing on these sources, “Before,” “In Existence,” and “After” uses vivid imagery and honesty to confront mortality and meaning. By weaving personal reflection with broader themes of existence, the collection strives to connect deeply with readers, offering both a mirror and a window into the shared experience of existence.