Browsing by Subject "Netherlandic Studies"

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    Mistiek in die bundel Die swart kombuis deur Sheila Cussons
    (2018) De Villiers, Izabel; Hambidge, Joan
    This study focuses on the mystical elements in Die swart kombuis (1978) by Sheila Cussons. This second collection of poetry of Cussons grows out of a context of the investigation of the tension between the earthly and the metaphysical that manifested in her first publication, Plektrum (1970), to a concentrated experience of the spiritual and human search for meaning and integration in Die swart kombuis. This publication can be placed within the tradition of Afrikaans mystical poetry. The mystical element is to be observed with the title of the collection, which can be read as a symbol of transformation. The word “kombuis” (kitchen) becomes an archetypal arena loaded with meaning and associations that are explored and expanded upon in the collection. The poems function as poetic expressions of the poet’s relationship with her persona and the internal dialogues that take place during these confrontations. The collection can be read as a creative expression of the poet’s individuation process. Cussons exposes the integration and the interpretation of her archetypes and allows the reader to participate in this sensitive process of personal enlightenment. The various stages of self-realisation find expression in the symbolic use of language and concepts that Cussons employs. This technique takes the reader on an abstract journey of selfinvestigation. By giving poetic expression to her personal process of individuation, Cussons presents the reader with a creative vehicle through which he or she can step into the mystical dimension. Previously, the reader might not have had exposure to complex concepts such as individuation, archetypes and symbolism; however, through the reading of this collection of poetry, access to these ideas is vicariously granted. This study aims to formulate a reading model that is able to identify, analyse and explain the various mystical elements in selected poems in Die swart kombuis. Mystical elements and characteristics are identified to give the reader an introduction to the language use and associated symbolism. The structure of the reading model incorporates ideas and theories from theorists such as the psychoanalyst Carl Gustav Jung, the philosopher and psychologist William James and the poet, Jungian analyst and cantadora Clarissa Pinkola Estés. The ideas of literary theorists Roland ix Barthes, Umberto Eco, Jonathan Culler and Frank Kermode are also included in the approach to the text. Attention is, furthermore, paid to symbolism, mythology and the use of poetry as a form of therapy and self-reflection.