Existentialism - Flipped Learning

This blog is assigned by Barad Sir as a part of Flipped Learning Activity. For more information on the task, click here. Before we begin the exploration of this topic, it is important to know the basics of Flipped Learning. 

Flipped Learning - 

Flipped Learning is a teaching method where traditional lectures are assigned as homework, freeing up class time for interactive, hands-on activities led by the educator. This approach encourages students to independently absorb content beforehand, allowing for more engaging and collaborative learning experiences during class sessions. 

For more information on it, you can check out this blog - Flipped Learning

Existentialism thoughts from the videos - 

I am impressed by these thoughts from Video 1:- 

In the video, the subject matter of existentialism is explained in a wonderful manner. Existentialism is like a triangle and its three sides are freedom, passions and individuality. 

I am also impressed by the idea that existentialism is popular in young people because it deals with the subject that the young people might be struggling with. This includes: suicide, anguish, absurdity, passions, emotions, death, freedom, or even despair. This statement shows the relevance of existentialism.

I am impressed by these thoughts from Video 2:- 

Here, suicide as an art is the idea that impresses me very much. Suicide is a private act that is prepared within the silence of the heart and this makes it similar to a great work of art. 

To further explain this point, a statement from the movie ‘Stay’, is provided -

“An elegant suicide is the ultimate work of art.”

It also reminds me of the death of Virginia Woolf, which can also be considered as artful suicide.

I am impressed by these thoughts from Video 3:- 

For an absurd mind, reason is useless and there is nothing beyond reason.

Absurdist is not scared of the reality, because seeking what is true is not seeking what is desirable.

I am impressed by these thoughts from Video 4:- 

Video 4, shows Nietzsche idea that impresses me very much. “ whom do they hate most? Him who breaks up the tables of values, the breaker, the law breaker. He, however, is the creator.”

I am impressed by these thoughts from Video 5:- 

One should judge the values themselves and choose to follow the ones that they consider appropriate. However, one should also be responsible he makes independently.

I am impressed by these thoughts from Video 6:- 

In video 6, the idea of nihilistic consent given by Emil Cioran is also interesting to study as it presents the opposite view from Albert Camus.

I am impressed by these thoughts from Video 8:- 

In here, the existentialism theory is explaining to 5 year olds. This in itself is very impressive. Here the concept of Ubermensche or Superman is explained very well.

I am impressed by these thoughts from Video 9:- 

In video 9, The Creator’s understanding of existentialism is discussed. Many brilliant ideas are presented by him. The ones that impressed me the most are - 

We are not alive to understand things, but we understand things to be more fully alive. 

Wisdom is knowing when it’s right to suffer, or let others suffer, and when it’s not.

Remember that you are human which in itself, is an extraordinary and brilliant destiny.

I am impressed by these thoughts from Video 10:- 

Here, given definition of absurdity is very simple and easy to understand and hence impressive. Absurdity - the search for answers in an answerless world.

Video I liked the most:- 

The video I like the most is “Why I like existentialism” by Eric Dodson. In here, he explains his own understanding of existentialism. You can check out the video here:- 

He also provides 10 ways to live more like an existentialist. They are as follows:- 

Learning Outcome:- 

Through engaging with the flipped learning materials on existentialism, I have gained a solid understanding of existentialist philosophy, including its core principles and their significance in human life. I am now able to articulate the main ideas of existentialism, analyse how they apply to real-life situations, and reflect on their implications for my own beliefs and choices. This learning experience has allowed me to study at my own pace, accessing videos and reading materials at times that suit my schedule. As a result, I feel more empowered in my learning process, as I can take the time needed to grasp complex concepts fully.

Questions - 

1. “A total absence of Hope not despair, a continual rejection not renunciation, and conscious dissatisfaction not immature unrest”. How can we differentiate between these three concept? (Video 3, 1:55)

2. In the explanation about Aristotle’s concept of “Essence”, there is a little bit of confusion. Aristotle suggests that human can act differently from their true essence, but cannot change it. But wouldn’t acting differently from one’s essence automatically mean changing it? (Video 7, 8:57) 

3. The quote says that “If the world is going to have any of the things most of us value - like justice and order - we’re going to have to put it there ourselves”. But isn’t all the justice system already made by us? Or are they suggesting each individual input in justice system? (Video 10, 7:45)

4. “true knowledge is impossible and rationality and science cannot explain the world” why does Camus say that true knowing is impossible? (Reading Material, The Myth of Sisyphus, Chapter 1 summary)

5. To escape the absurdity of life, Albert Camus suggested three options. He is in favour of  “Acceptance of the Absurd”. How is that different from philosophical suicide? 

6. “Acceptance of the Absurd” is labelled a rebellion. But if it’s about accepting something, how can it be considered revolting? 

The Great Gatsby

"The Great Gatsby" is a captivating novel written by F. Scott Fitzgerald that delves into the glamorous world of the Jazz Age in 1920s America. Through the eyes of narrator Nick Carraway, readers are transported to the New York City and Long Island. At the centre of the story is Jay Gatsby, a mysterious and enigmatic millionaire known for his lavish parties and elusive past. As Nick becomes entangled in Gatsby's world, he uncovers secrets, desires, and the tragic consequences of pursuing the American Dream. With its vivid imagery, complex characters, and timeless themes, "The Great Gatsby" continues to captivate readers and remains a quintessential portrayal of the Roaring Twenties and the pursuit of wealth, love, and identity. For more information on the novel, check out the presentation given below:- 

To know the detailed summary of ‘The Great Gatsby’, check out the video given below:- 

1. Exploring 'False Prophet of the American Dream' by Roger L. Pearson 

You can read the article here:- ‘False Prophet of the American Dream’

Summary of the article:

The article discusses F. Scott Fitzgerald's portrayal of Jay Gatsby as a false prophet of the American Dream.

The American Dream is a recurring theme in American literature, representing the belief that anyone can pursue and attain their goals regardless of background. Past writers portrayed it optimistically, but Fitzgerald's take is more pessimistic. 

Gatsby represents the corrupted American Dream of the "Roaring Twenties" - materialism and hedonism. He is described as a "perverted God" dedicated to physical pleasures rather than spiritual ideals. Gatsby invents a false upper class background for himself and lives as a rich man. His lavish mansion symbolises his materialism. Fitzgerald builds up Gatsby's character as god-like and mysterious before revealing him as a fraud and criminal. 

The Valley of Ashes represents the spiritual wasteland created by people like Gatsby pursuing hollow dreams. Dr. Eckleburg's eyes judge this moral decay. Gatsby thinks he can repeat and fix the past through wealth, but fails. His dream crumbles and he dies pursuing the now-married Daisy, representing the failed American Dream. In death, Gatsby is abandoned by his followers and left with an empty legacy. As a prophet of corrupted values, he is a false prophet who met a tragic end. Fitzgerald uses religious imagery but depicts Gatsby as a rejected messianic figure.

As Pearson himself concludes: 

“The American dream is not to be a reality, in that it no longer exists, except in the minds of men like Gatsby, whom it destroys in their espousal and relentless pursuit of it. The American dream is, in reality, a nightmare.”

Hence, through Gatsby's character arc, Fitzgerald portrays the American Dream as illusory and destructive - a cautionary tale of idealism gone wrong. Gatsby represents the distorted dream of his age rather than a true prophet.

Review of the article:

This article provides an insightful analysis of how F. Scott Fitzgerald portrays Jay Gatsby as a misguided prophet of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby. The author, Roger L. Pearson, makes a compelling argument that Gatsby represents the corrupted version of the American Dream in the 1920s, rather than an idealistic striving for goals. 

The article positions Gatsby as a deliberate subversion of the traditional American Dream depicted in early American literature. While past writers showed the dream optimistically, Fitzgerald consciously inverts this vision through Gatsby's tragic flaws and hollow materialism. The religious language elevates Gatsby to a prophetic status, making his failure more stark and cautionary.

Pearson supports his thesis with strong textual evidence. He points to key passages that characterise Gatsby as a fraud and criminal living a lie. Convincing symbolic analysis of settings like the Valley of Ashes and Gatsby's mansion bolster the claims. The biblical allusions to false gods and Christ figures paint Gatsby as a corrupt prophet. The layered comparisons to figures like Mammon ground Fitzgerald's message in historical contexts. The article moves smoothly between close reading, thematic analysis, and contextual discussion of the 1920s. Pearson shows strong comprehension of Fitzgerald's subtler literary techniques as well.

While more perspective from Fitzgerald's own views could provide additional insights, Pearson constructs a persuasive interpretation from the text itself. Overall, this is an illuminating analysis that sheds light on Fitzgerald's skilful shaping of Gatsby as a misguided apostle of empty dreams rather than virtue. It is a strong contribution to scholarship on The Great Gatsby and its dissection of wayward American ideals.

2. Creative and Analytical Activities:-

(i) Modern Reimagining :

With the help of chat GPT, I have rewritten the scene where Jay Gatsby meets Daisy again. In the film this scene was shown like this:- 

Rewritten scene - 

In a contemporary retelling, as we stepped into the house, I was surprised to find the living room empty.

"That's odd," I remarked.

"What's odd?" she asked, turning her head just as there was a polite knock at the front door. I opened it to reveal Gatsby, looking pale and intense, his hands buried in his pockets, standing in a puddle.

He strode past me into the hall, disappearing into the living room without a word. The tension was palpable, and the sound of my own heartbeat filled the silence as I closed the door against the rain.

After a moment, the room echoed with a stifled murmur and Daisy's artificial greeting.

"I'm so glad to see you," she said, her voice strained. 

An uncomfortable pause lingered. With nothing else to do, I joined them in the room.

Gatsby lounged against the mantelpiece with an air of forced nonchalance, his eyes fixed on Daisy, who sat poised but uneasy.

"We've crossed paths before," Gatsby muttered, his gaze flickering briefly towards me before attempting a laugh. The tension was broken momentarily by a tilting clock, which Gatsby hastily corrected before taking a seat, his demeanor rigid.

Apologizing for the clock, Gatsby's awkwardness mirrored my own discomfort.

"It's an old clock," I blurted out, feeling the heat rise in my cheeks.

For a moment, it seemed as though the clock had shattered on the floor.

"We haven't seen each other in years," Daisy remarked matter-of-factly.

"Five years this November," Gatsby replied mechanically, throwing us all off balance.

Attempting to ease the tension, I suggested making tea, and as we busied ourselves with the task, a semblance of normalcy settled over the room.

Gatsby remained in the shadows, his gaze shifting between Daisy and me with a palpable unease.

Sensing the need to leave, I excused myself, prompting Gatsby to follow me into the kitchen in a panic.

"What's wrong?" I asked.

"This is all a mistake," he whispered, his distress evident.

"You're just nervous," I reassured him, adding, "Daisy is too."

"She's nervous?" he repeated incredulously.

"Lower your voice," I cautioned. "You're behaving like a child, and Daisy's waiting alone."

With a reproachful look, Gatsby retreated back into the room, leaving me to ponder the complexities of their reunion.

The changes made in the passage - 

the language and dialogues have been updated to be more modern and accessible, reflecting how people might speak today. The dialogue is more casual and straightforward. While maintaining the essence of the original scene, the setting has been upgraded to a contemporary context, such as references to rain and the use of a kitchen instead of a tea room. The character motivations have been adjusted to align with modern sensibilities and behaviours. For example, Gatsby’s nervousness and awkwardness are portrayed in a way that resonates with contemporary social anxieties.

Overall, these changes aim to make the scene feel more familiar and accessible to a modern audience while preserving the essence of the original passage from “The Great Gatsby.”

Conclusion:- 

Revisiting F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless classic, “The Great Gatsby,” offers a profound opportunity to delve into the intricacies of human nature, societal constructs, and the pursuit of the elusive American Dream. Through a critical review of Pearson’s article, coupled with a reimagined scene from the text set in a modern context, we are reminded of the enduring relevance and impact of Fitzgerald’s work.

Words:- 1577

Images:- 1

Videos:- 2

References:- 

Pearson, Roger L. “Gatsby: False Prophet of the American Dream.” The English Journal, vol. 59, no. 5, 1970, pp. 638–45. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/813939. Accessed 23 Feb. 2024.

Vita and Virginia

Vita & Virginia is a 2018 biographical romantic drama film directed by Chanya Button. Set in the 1920s, Vita & Virginia tells the story of the love affair between Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf. The film stars Gemma Arterton as Vita Sackville-West, Elizabeth Debicki as Virginia Woolf. This blog is a thinking activity, assigned by Vaidehi Ma’am, based on this film. For more formation click here. 

1. Who do you think is initiating the relationship, Vita or Virginia? Who do you think is taking advantage of this relationship? 

In the movie, it is evident that Vita is the one who initiates the relationship. Long before their paths physically cross, Vita’s fascination with Virginia Woolf is palpable, her imagination ignited by the enigmatic aura surrounding the esteemed writer. 

At the party she is the one who approaches her. She is also the one who starts the letter correspondence. Moreover, when Virginia takes a liking to Vita, her friend says a cryptic sentence: “caught your prey”. Hence, we can say that Vita is the one that initiated the relationship. 

As for the one who gets an advantage from this relationship, it is hard to estimate. We can, however, argue that Virginia has a greater advantage as this relationship provided her inspiration and led to the creation of a literary masterpiece ‘Orlando’. 

2. Who do you think is confused about their identity Vita or Virginia? Explain with illustrations. 

According to my observations, both of them are confused about their identities in different ways. 

Vita’s struggle was around societal expectations, gender roles, and her place within the aristocratic elite. As a member of the aristocracy, Vita was expected to adhere to strict social conventions and fulfil the roles assigned to her as a wife and mother. However, she rebelled against these constraints and seeks fulfilment outside the confines of societal rules. This struggle is seen in her passionate affairs with Virginia Woolf, and other people, which defied societal norms and challenged conventional notions of love and desire.

Virginia’s battle was deeply intertwined with her mental health and her experiences of trauma. Virginia’s mental health challenges profoundly influenced her sense of self and her relationship with the world around her. She grappled with feelings of alienation, inadequacy, and existential dread. These are manifested in her writing as a sense of dislocation. Virginia’s exploration of identity was tied to her artistic endeavours, as she sought to make sense of her inner turmoil and give voice to her innermost thoughts and emotions.

Hence, both Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf experienced confusion about their identities in different ways and for different reasons. 

3. What is society’s thought about women and identity? Do you agree with them? If Yes then why? If no then why?

Society’s thoughts on women and identity have evolved over time, yet they often still grapple with deeply ingrained stereotypes and expectations. Many still follow the traditional gender roles and stereotypes. They constrain women’s identities within narrow frameworks. However, there’s a growing recognition for gender equality and the empowerment of women to define their own identities. Inspired by Virginia Woolf’s insights, I believe that women should have the autonomy to shape their identities free from oppressive norms. I reject societal limitations that seek to confine women to predefined roles and instead advocate for the celebration of diverse and authentic expressions of womanhood.

Recently I saw an interesting video that explores the concept of feminism. You can watch that here:- 

4. Write a note on your observations of the society during that era.

The movie depicts the early to mid-20th century. Society of that time was undergoing several changes. 

The film portrays a society that follows gender roles, particularly for women. We can see from Vita’s example how women were expected to fulfil the traditional roles of wives and mothers. Vita who possessed a bold personality had to suffer from her mother’s disapproval. Yet it was not like the women had no power. Vita and Virginia both were successful authors and both enjoyed certain freedom. This shows the evolving society of that time. 

The film also highlights the class division prevalent in society during that time. Vita belongs to the aristocratic elite, with access to privilege, wealth, and social status. Virginia Woolf, while part of the intellectual and artistic elite, comes from a more middle-class background. This class difference is subtly portrayed in their interactions and social circles.

5. Write a note on the direction of the movie. Which symbols and space caught your attention while watching the movie?

The direction of the movie ‘Vita and Virginia’ is skilfully done by Chanya Button. The movie captures the emotional depth of the characters and presents an immersive view in the historical context of the era. It is important to mention that Button's direction is anchored by strong performances from Gemma Arterton and Elizabeth Debicki. Both actors bring depth and nuance to their respective roles. There were many scenes that caught my attention. Some of them are:- 

Printing Scene 

The movie begins with a scene of the printing press and a similar scene is shown to suggest the printing of her novel ‘Orlando’. Both these sequence are captivating and intrigues the viewer. 

Virginia’s Mental Struggle 

Button makes use of visual distortions to convey Virginia's mental struggles during moments of heightened anxiety. Virginia's mental struggles are also depicted through physical symptoms such as headaches, or tremors, which manifest as a result of her anxiety or panic attacks. These physical manifestations serve as reminders of the toll that mental illness takes on Virginia's body and mind. One prominent scene that captures her mental struggles is when she fights off imaginary birds. This scene invokes in viewers a sympathy for her character. 

Portrayal of Leonard Woolf 

Another aspect of the film that I really admire is the character portrayal of Virginia Woolf’s husband Leonard Woolf. The care and concern he shows for Virginia throughout the film is enchanting to witness. The actor Peter Ferdinando delivers a truly praiseworthy performance. 

Overall, Chanya Button's direction in "Vita and Virginia" elevates the material and creates a visually stunning and emotional portrait of two remarkable women. 

6. If "Vita and Virginia" had to be made into a Bollywood Adaptation, who do you think would be fit for the role of Vita and Virginia?

If a Bollywood adaptation of the movie “Vita and Virginia” is made, I think Tabu would be suitable for the role of Virginia Woolf. 

The role of Vita Sackville-West could be played skilfully by Anushka Sharma. 

For further exploration, you can check out the trailer of the film here:-

Words - 1095

Images - 7

Videos - 2

The Waste Land

"The Waste Land" is a complex modernist poem by T.S. Eliot, first published in 1922. It's known for its fragmented structure, rich symbolism, and themes of disillusionment, spiritual crisis, and the decline of Western civilisation after World War I. The poem is divided into five sections: "The Burial of the Dead", "A Game of Chess", "The Fire Sermon," "Death by Water," and "What the Thunder Said". 

Through various voices, literary allusions, and cultural references, Eliot explores themes of fragmentation, alienation, and the search for meaning in a world that seems spiritually and morally bankrupt. To know more about it  It's considered one of the most important works of 20th-century literature due to its innovative style and profound exploration of the human condition in the modern era.

This blog is a thinking activity, assigned by Barad Sir, based on this poem. For more information click here. 

1. What are your views on the following image after reading 'The Waste Land'? Do you think that Eliot is regressive as compared to Nietzche's views? or Has Eliot achieved universality of thought by recalling mytho-historical answer to the contemporary malaise? 

I don't fully agree that Eliot is regressive or backward-looking in The Waste Land. While he does use many myths, legends, and religious and spiritual traditions, I see this more as giving the contemporary moment a sense of timelessness rather than regression. Eliot connects the disillusionment after WWI not just to the war, but to larger spiritual crises in Western civilization. In that sense, his use of Eastern traditions like Buddhism and Upanishads is not simply regression or backward-looking. Rather, I see it as trying to find universal sources of meaning and purpose that transcend any one historical moment. The myths become a way to process a uniquely modern moment through primal narratives of death and rebirth. So while radically different in style and message, both Nietzsche and Eliot are grappling honestly with the late 19th and early 20th century crisis of faith and meaning. Nietzsche offers the "progressive" individualist solution of the Superman moving defiantly forward. Eliot draws on pan-cultural myths and traditions to situate his moment in a longer arc and source of meaning. Two very different responses, but I don't find Eliot's any less engaged with seriously reckoning the challenges of modernity. The mythic method allows him to speak to perennial problems of human civilizations, not just the immediate post-war context. So in many ways he achieves a universality of thought and spiritual inquiry. 

2. Prior to the speech, Gustaf Hellström of the Swedish Academy made these remarks: 

What are your views regarding these comments? Is it true that giving free vent to the repressed 'primitive instinct' lead us to happy and satisfied life? or do you agree with Eliot's view that 'salvation of man lies in the preservation of the cultural tradition'? 

Both Sigmund Freud’s and T.S. Eliot’s compelling arguments, that highlight different facets of human nature and societal harmony, are presented here. Freud leans towards the importance of acknowledging and integrating primitive instincts to maintain balance and prevent discomfort in modern life. Meanwhile, Eliot underscores the significance of preserving cultural tradition as a means of salvation for humanity, promoting stability and continuity.

Cultural traditions often exist for good reasons and provide stability, meaning, and guidance for human lives. However, some traditions can also be oppressive or outlived. Change and evolution is also necessary.

Primitive instincts are powerful and suppressing them can lead to neuroses for individuals or groups. However, completely unleashing instincts without any restraint could lead to chaos, harm, and a breakdown of cooperative social relations. 

In reality, neither extreme approach is entirely sufficient on its own. Most likely, the healthiest individual and collective psyche requires a balance between tradition and instincts, stability and change. Too much of either extreme may be problematic. Both culture and instincts shape human nature and behaviour. Honouring both forces while finding an equilibrium between them is likely the wisest path. By embracing both aspects, we can navigate the complexities of modern life while preserving the essence of what makes us human and connected to our cultural heritage.

3. Write about allusions to the Indian thoughts in 'The Waste Land'. (Where, How and Why are the Indian thoughts referred?)

In "The Waste Land" a complex tapestry of allusions, drawing inspiration from various cultures and philosophies is seen. Among these, Indian thought plays a significant role, enriching the poem with themes of spiritual barrenness, cyclical rebirth, and the search for meaning. Here are some examples of these allusions:

Datta, Dayadhvam, Damyata

In section five, "What the Thunder Said," Eliot directly uses three Sanskrit words: Datta (give), Dayadhvam (sympathize), and Damyata (control). These correspond to three cardinal virtues found in ancient Indian scriptures like the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad. They offer a potential path to spiritual progress and renewal, contrasting the spiritual wasteland depicted throughout the poem. These principles represent core ethical values in Hinduism and Buddhism, offering potential solutions to the poem's spiritual barrenness and suggesting a path towards enlightenment and peace.

The Fire Sermon

Section three, "The Fire Sermon," draws parallels between the Buddha's fire sermon, highlighting the impermanence and suffering inherent in material existence. This connection highlights the poem's engagement with themes of impermanence and the potential for personal liberation through asceticism, a concept present in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions.

The Fisher King 

References of The Fisher King myth are scattered throughout the poem, with prominent appearances in "The Game of Chess" and "What the Thunder Said." The myth of the Fisher King can be connected to Indian fertility deities, symbolising the cyclical nature of death and rebirth. This theme resonates with the poem's exploration of decay and potential renewal.The allusions suggest a cyclical understanding of existence, offering the possibility of restoration and regeneration despite the bleakness of the Wasteland.

The River Ganga

References to the Ganga, the sacred river in Hinduism, appear throughout the poem, especially in “The Burial of the Dead", "A Game of Chess", and "What the Thunder Said”. The sacred river Ganga is mentioned both directly and symbolically, associated with spiritual cleansing and renewal. These references provide a potential counterpoint to the spiritual aridity of the Wasteland, hinting at the possibility of spiritual purification and hope.

Upanishadic Influences

Eliot was known for his interest in Sanskrit and Upanishadic thought. The poem's fragmented structure and exploration of various voices echo the Upanishads' focus on individual subjectivity and the search for ultimate reality. These connections enrich the poem's depth and texture, inviting readers to consider diverse cultural and philosophical perspectives on existence.

These were a few allusions to Indian thoughts made by T. S. Eliot in ‘The Waste Land’. 

4. Is it possible to read 'The Waste Land' as a Pandemic Poem?

Yes, it is certainly possible to read T.S. Eliot's poem "The Waste Land" through the lens of a pandemic. There are several elements of the poem that resonate with the experience of widespread disease and its aftermath. Some of them are:- 

Imagery of sickness and death

The poem contains vivid imagery of crowds of sick and dying people. Just as the poem depicts physical decay and sickness, a pandemic brings to the forefront the reality of widespread illness and death. The images of polluted rivers, barren landscapes, and references to disease in "The Waste Land" mirror the physical manifestations of a pandemic, such as the spread of contagious viruses and the toll it takes on human bodies. The spiritual and emotional malaise depicted in "The Waste Land" resonates with the psychological impact of a pandemic. Feelings of isolation, despair, and existential uncertainty pervade the poem, mirroring the mental health challenges faced by individuals during a pandemic, such as anxiety, depression, and grief.

Sense of despair and hopelessness 

The mood of the poem is overwhelmingly bleak and portrays a feeling of being lost in a miserable, dead land. This reflects the profound despair that pandemics can invoke in the human psyche. The poem depicts a world devoid of meaning and purpose, where individuals struggle to find significance in their lives. This existential crisis mirrors the existential questioning and search for meaning that often occurs during a pandemic, as individuals grapple with the uncertainty and upheaval brought about by widespread illness and death.

Disruption of social bonds 

The fragmentary structure and series of disjointed vignettes suggests a breakage of connections between people, just as quarantines, lockdowns, and social distancing disrupt community ties.

So while Eliot was not directly writing about a health crisis, the emotions, imagery, and themes evoked by "The Waste Land" powerfully convey the individual and collective experience of living through a pandemic - making it a meaningful work for the COVID-19 era and beyond. The poem captures the resonance of how pandemics upset our world on every level. Elizabeth Outka, English Professor at University of Richmond, in her book ‘Viral Modernism’, discusses how ‘The Waste Land’ can be studied as a pandemic poem. To know more about it, check out these online lectures. 

Conclusion 

To conclude, T.S. Eliot's "The Waste Land" stands as a masterpiece of modernist literature, rich with symbolism, imagery, and profound themes that continue to resonate with readers today. Through its fragmented structure and diverse allusions, the poem explores the spiritual desolation, moral decay, and existential angst of the post-World War I era. As we delve into Eliot's poetic landscape, we are challenged to confront our own assumptions, grapple with the uncertainties of life, and ultimately, seek redemption amidst the wasteland of our contemporary world.

Words - 1584

Images - 8

Videos - 2