The Fusion of Culture and Symbolism in Mahapatra's Poetic Expression

Abstract

A well-known poet in Indian English, Jayant Mahapatra skilfully incorporates cultural imagery and symbolism into his poems to create a sophisticated and nuanced picture of Indian life. His poetry delves deeply into identity, spirituality, socio-economic circumstances, and the passage of time. He frequently employs vivid and evocative imagery to convey these themes' core effectively. By bridging the personal and the global, Mahapatra's deft use of symbols, whether derived from natural elements, human anatomy, or customary rituals, offers profound insights into the human predicament. The poetry of Mahapatra is collected in a wide variety of works, all of which add to a complex picture of India's spiritual and cultural landscapes. In addition to showcasing India's diverse cultural heritage, Mahapatra's poetry through apt use of symbols and images critically examines how societal conventions and cultural traditions shape and frequently restrict people's lives.