Exploring the motifs of death and immortality

Abstract

felt threatened by the eventuality of death, inculcating in them a fear so great that
all possible strategies are engaged in the search for an avenue that would prepare
them for this eventuality. A careful exploration of human activities surrounding the
issues of death and immortality reveals an obsession with the expression of the
possibility of defeating death through the artistic act.
Art functions as the arena where human beings can mock, jeer, and repudiate
mortality. Indeed, death is a central conundrum in philosophical, literary and even
religious arguments that focus on human identity and reality. The usefulness of
literature in exposing human fears, aspirations and desires is emphasized as literature
functions as the meeting point where all manner of philosophies are presented and
debated. In examining how the motifs of death and immortality are represented in
the artistic act, it is imperative that this article draws from a wide range of genres.
Apparently, both oral and written forms of human expression, as well as
metaphysical, fantastic and mythic representations of the cultural text have been
taken into consideration. The revelation is that we rely on art to express even our
deepest fears, and we reciprocate by giving art an immortal status. This results in an
interdependence that combines to defeat the abrasiveness of mortality. Also, this
symbiotic relationship accords the creative act a pivotal role for it gives death a form
and a face, making it easier for us to deal with it and assume a privileged
psychological standpoint.

Journal of Language, Technology & Entrepreneurship in Africa Vol. 1 (2) 2009: pp. 187-197