Mysticism and nature : A study of the select poems by Rabindranath Tagore

An illustrious Bengali poet, Rabindranath Tagore was also an advocate of the symbolic representation of nature and its mystic aspects. His poetic style is a reflection of simplicity, romanticism, and is coloured by mystical hues and tones. While probing for tools of expression, his poems make use of vivid nature imagery and symbolism. Mystic poetry holds a special place in the canon of world literature due to the fact that it primarily focuses on one’s internal rather than external experiences, inner rather than outer truth, spiritual rather than materialistic world, and metaphysical rather than physical adventures. Many of his prolific works shed light on the depth of his connection to the natural world, illuminating how Nature, in all of her guises, served as the source of his inspiration. We learn through his comprehensive works about the relationship between man and nature that the experience of the world is not separate from the experience of nature and therefore both are interrelated. The present paper aims to study select poems of Rabindranath Tagore through the lens of mysticism and at the same time highlight the convention, role, and treatment of nature and symbolism as portrayed in Tagore’s poetry while also tracing its reflections and influences.