"In the quiet clash of dawn and dusk,
A soul dances between joy and husk.
A single heart, two paths to roam,
In light and shadow, finds its home."
This intimate poem I wrote one night as I analysed my research data, encapsulates the profound journey of navigating independence, especially within the depths of loneliness, and personal growth. The delicate balance of light and shadow speaks to the duality of my emotional world and the search for a harmonious existence.
The Dual Nature of Independence
The poem's imagery of a soul dancing between joy and husk mirrors the nuanced experience of independence. On one hand, independence offers the joy of self-discovery and the freedom to forge one’s path. On the other, it can bring the husk of solitude and the weight of responsibility. This dual nature is poignantly explored in William Styron’s "Darkness Visible" and Lars Svendsen’s "The Philosophy of Loneliness," both of which examine the depths of human emotion and the solitary aspects of our existence. Both authors influenced my PhD journey.
Styron’s depiction of depression as a “howling tempest” aligns with the husk—the darker side of independence where isolation and despair can take hold. His memoir illustrates how the pursuit of self-reliance can sometimes lead me into the shadowy parts of my psyche, where the light of joy feels distant and unreachable. This echoes the sentiments of many who navigate mental health challenges while striving to maintain their autonomy.
In contrast, Svendsen’s exploration of loneliness suggests that these shadowy periods can also be spaces of profound self-reflection and growth. I certainly found this out in my research. He posits that loneliness is not merely an absence but a presence—a fertile ground where one can cultivate a deeper understanding of self. This perspective resonates with the poem’s depiction of a heart roaming two paths, finding solace and home in both light and shadow.
"A table for one, under evening's soft light,
With a book and a smile, she dines out tonight.
Independence unfolds, as the world softly hums,
In the solace of solitude, her spirit becomes."
The Feminist Perspective: A Room of One’s Own
Virginia Woolf’s "A Room of One’s Own" further enriches this dialogue by highlighting the necessity of personal space and financial independence for creative and intellectual freedom. Woolf’s argument that a woman must have "money and a room of her own" to write fiction speaks to the broader theme of carving out a place where one can thrive independently.
For women, the dance between joy and husk often involves navigating societal expectations and personal ambitions. The quest for independence is not just about escaping the confines of traditional roles but also about finding and embracing one's unique identity amidst the light and shadow of existence. Woolf’s advocacy for female autonomy aligns with the poem’s portrayal of a soul that finds its home in both the dawn of joy and the dusk of solitude.
Feminist literature, including works by Simone de Beauvoir (below) and 'Bell hooks', emphasises the importance of creating spaces where women can explore and express their true selves without external constraints. This echoes my poem’s call for embracing both paths—joy and husk—as essential to the journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
The Contemporary Landscape
In the current UK context, where mental health issues and the quest for gender equality are at the forefront of societal discourse, the relationship between independence, depression, and loneliness is increasingly relevant. Reports from the Mental Health Foundation and the British Red Cross highlight how these issues intersect, particularly for women who often bear the dual burdens of societal expectations and personal aspirations.
My poem portrays a single heart roaming two paths invites you to consider how we can support each other in finding balance and fulfilment. It calls for a societal commitment to creating environments where individuals can explore both their light and shadow without fear of judgment or isolation. This is particularly vital for women seeking to assert their independence while navigating the emotional landscapes that accompany this journey. I like to promote power, by enabling and and sharing knowledge - you might have guessed!
Embracing the rhythm.
Ultimately, the poem’s gentle rhythm and evocative imagery remind me that independence is not a destination but a continuous dance between joy and husk, light and shadow. It invites you to embrace the full spectrum of your experiences, recognising that each step—whether in light or darkness—brings us closer to understanding and affirming our true selves.
As I navigate my path, inspired by the insights of Styron, Svendsen, and Woolf, I can find strength in the dance. By acknowledging and embracing the dualities of my existence, I create a richer, more resilient tapestry of life. In this, I don't just find my home but also my deepest source of joy and fulfilment
Comments