김채원의 〈겨울의 환〉에 나타난 문학치료적 성격 분석

Abstract

This article redefines the significance of motherhood expressed in Kim Ch’ae－Wǒn’s novel entitled Kyǒul ǔi hwan , which represents motherhood as a force of vitality, transcendence, and spirituality. By employing the bibliotherapic approach toward literature, I observed that the literary representation of motherhood is connected to heal human wounds. The contemporary society prevails with the mental and psychological problems, as epitomized in the concept of “fatigue society” in Han Byǒng-Ch’ǒl’s writing. Han argues for the positive side of the “fatigue society” in which people focus on deliberation and contemplation. Such pursuit of the contemplative life is suggested in Illusion of winter. Specifically, this article focuses on the expression of motherhood as an instrument of healing, and I concentrate on the two particular scenes concerning the representation of motherhood: The mother who prepares a meal and sets the table, and the mother patiently waits for her family at the door. Specifically, the mother’s preparation of food symbolizes the vitality of life, while her waiting at the door captures the transcendental personality or spirituality of the mother character. Such portrayals serve to wrap and heal the wounds and scars, since motherhood occupies the inherent and sacred realm of humanity, where pain can never reach. The vitality and spiritual nature of life and nourishment in the Illusion of winter therefore suggests its significance in modern society. Conclusively, this study illuminates the literary representation of motherhood as a site of healing.