Howl

Definition

In literature, 'howl' often refers to a passionate expression of deep emotion or anguish, conveying a sense of despair and existential questioning. This term embodies the raw, visceral intensity found in certain poetic works, connecting to themes of alienation, absurdity, and the human condition, particularly in the aftermath of war and societal upheaval.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Howl' is famously associated with Allen Ginsberg's poem 'Howl,' which became a landmark work of the Beat Generation and a central piece of American counterculture.
2. The poem 'Howl' grapples with themes such as mental illness, societal repression, and the search for authentic experiences amidst chaos.
3. 'Howl' employs vivid imagery and unconventional structure to evoke a sense of urgency and emotional depth, mirroring the existential crises faced by individuals.
4. The work was initially controversial and faced obscenity trials due to its candid exploration of taboo subjects like sexuality and addiction.
5. 'Howl' reflects post-war disillusionment and critiques materialism, providing a voice for those marginalized in society during the mid-20th century.

Review Questions

• How does 'howl' function as a motif in the context of existentialist poetry?
  • 'Howl' serves as a powerful motif within existentialist poetry by encapsulating feelings of despair and alienation. In works that explore human existence's absurdities, such as Ginsberg's 'Howl,' this expression reflects characters grappling with their place in an uncaring universe. The intense emotional outpouring found in these pieces mirrors the struggle for meaning against an indifferent backdrop.
• Discuss how Ginsberg's 'Howl' reflects post-war sentiments and contributes to the literary landscape of its time.
  • 'Howl' captures post-war sentiments by articulating widespread disillusionment and frustration with societal norms. Ginsberg's vivid imagery reveals the struggles faced by individuals in a rapidly changing world, emphasizing themes like mental health and social injustice. This poem contributed significantly to the literary landscape by challenging censorship, advocating for marginalized voices, and paving the way for future movements centered around personal freedom and authenticity.
• Evaluate the impact of 'howl' as a literary device in shaping the conversation around absurdity and meaninglessness in post-war literature.
  • 'Howl' profoundly impacts discussions on absurdity and meaninglessness by using visceral language to confront existential questions. It invites readers to explore their own feelings of isolation while facing an indifferent world. This literary device becomes instrumental in post-war literature as it challenges conventional narratives, reflecting a collective yearning for understanding amidst chaos. The emotional weight carried by 'howl' encourages an ongoing dialogue about identity, purpose, and societal values in an increasingly complex reality.

Related terms

Existentialism: A philosophical movement focusing on individual existence, freedom, and choice, often addressing the meaning (or meaninglessness) of life.

Absurdism:

A philosophy that highlights the conflict between humans' search for meaning and the indifferent universe, emphasizing the inherent chaos of existence.

Beat Generation:

A literary and cultural movement in the 1950s characterized by a rejection of conventional societal norms and an exploration of spiritual and artistic freedom.