Sacred Lucidity: Embodied Identity Through the Lens of Poetry
Graduation Date
5-2019
Document Type
Senior Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Humanities and Cultural Studies
Department or Program Chair
Chase Clow, PhD
First Reader
Judy Halebsky, PhD
Abstract
Social location and personal identity must be explored through the art of poetry, in conjunction with academic analysis. In a 28-page poetry chapbook and nine-page analytical essay, "Sacred Lucidity" provides a deep examination of social justice and radical personal healing. The introductory essay takes a close look at "Mirror" by Sylvia Plath, "in salem" by Lucille Clifton, and two poems from "milk and honey" by Rupi Kaur, all in relation to their societal impact in demographic identification and harsh truths of trauma in personal histories. This thesis explores the human condition and specifics of self, while taking on philosophical themes, including spiritual interpretation of individual experiential learning of selfhood. In further illuminating our raw human truths, poetry is the perfect medium for this discovery process. Storytelling and perspective-taking both contribute to community improvement and compassion cultivation, overall. By addressing questions of race, class, gender, disability and mental illness, body positivity and eating disorders, the writer creates a flawed and empowered poetic self-portrait. In doing so, this thesis puts forth a framework for social change by way of feminine vulnerability in the written word. "Sacred Lucidity: Embodied Identity Through the Lens of Poetry" adds to our understanding of the empowering practice of writing and reading detailed, identity-oriented poetry.
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