A Study of Nature and the Way in the Poetry of Kim Si-seup

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to study the diverse concepts of nature and the Way in the poetry of Kim Si-seup. In the poetry the representation of nature functions in relationship with the experience and life of the poet and his philosophy of the Way of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. Through an analysis of the nature and function of Chinese characters and the poetry, as well as its expression of the experience and life of Kim Si-seup, including his views on the laws of nature, human nature, and being true to one’s nature, this paper attempts to show that the representation of nature functions in relationship with the Way of Confucianism in the rational form of the poetry, in relationship with the Way of Buddhism in the compassionate purpose of its depiction of the world of impermanence and suffering, and in relationship with the Way of Taoism in its portrayal of the virtue and wonder of a life lived in accordance with the providence of nature.