Abstract
This article explores the concept of unity of being in fiction by Pakistani women writers. The usage of mystic language and depiction of mystical and Sūfi symbols in literature can be traced back to ancient texts. However, it has been deemed alien for women to be Sūfis and have mystic experience, apart from a few exceptions. Indulging in formulating mystical symbols and using mystic language by women has not been perceived as too womanly. The main reason for this is the fact that women’s world-view has been restricted and thus deemed limited. Complete works of fiction by Pakistani women writers writing in Urdu have been explored for this research. There are two steps in sample selection i.e. women fiction writers and their fiction. Women writers are selected on the basis of set criteria. Selection of text is done through theoretical sampling. Women fiction writers have used mystic symbols meaningfully at innumerable places in their works. By the study of these works, it can be concluded that women writers have indulged in using mystical language and symbols and have done it in a crafty manner, though retaining the traditional usage of these symbols and metaphors.
Highlights
Pakistani women fiction writers have a significant contribution to the bulk of literature produced in Urdu language.1 Women have been telling stories since times unknown, but their names as associated with the pen arrived late in the history of language and literature.2 Another concern is that despite being a part of writing community, they were not recorded properly in history of the pen.3 It remained a global phenomenon; women wrote under pseudonyms or with the initials of their names
Language is important in mysticism and Sūfism
As far as this study is concerned, it is the manner in which these expressions are utilized by women writers is explored, that in turn tells of their grasp over certain ideas and usage of those terms in a sheer Sūfi manner
Summary
Pakistani women fiction writers have a significant contribution to the bulk of literature produced in Urdu language.1 Women have been telling stories since times unknown, but their names as associated with the pen arrived late in the history of language and literature.2 Another concern is that despite being a part of writing community, they were not recorded properly in history of the pen.3 It remained a global phenomenon; women wrote under pseudonyms or with the initials of their names. There have been considerable research as far as mystical literary writings are concerned, but there is a lack of the research as regards to women writers writing in Sūfi terms. There is dearth of research focused entirely on Sūfi way of writing or usage of mystical symbols and metaphors by women writers.
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