Author: Prasanta Rang
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/Bijmrd/03020005
Abstract: Kamala Das, one of India’s most celebrated poets, is known for her bold and confessional exploration of identity, gender, and personal freedom. Her poetry reflects an ongoing journey of self-discovery, where she challenges societal expectations, redefines femininity, and asserts her autonomy. This paper examines the theme of self-discovery in the poems of Kamala Das, focusing on how her works serve as a means of self-expression, emotional release, and empowerment. Through a close reading of key poems such as An Introduction, The Old Playhouse, and My Grandmother’s House, the study explores how Das navigates her desires, sexuality, memories, and the roles imposed upon her as a woman. By rejecting traditional gender roles and embracing her complexities, Das’s poetry becomes a space for asserting authenticity and confronting societal constraints. This paper argues that for Kamala Das, poetry is not just an act of artistic expression but a powerful tool for self-realization and personal liberation. Through her work, she invites readers—especially women—to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery, encouraging them to explore, reclaim, and celebrate their identities.
Keywords: Sexuality, Memories, Personal Freedom, Self-Discovery, Journeys.
Page No: 39-43