Self and Shadow in Hesse's Siddhartha - A Psychoanalytical Study

In this study, the author attempts to explicate the psychological complications regarding psychic duality of humans. With the help of various concepts, such as I-Ching Principle of China and others already known to the world, the dichotomy of two archetypes is deciphered. The author is of the opinion that the two archetypes, the Self and the Shadow, constitute the major binding forces of a human psyche. Consequently, it is through a process of integration between the two archetypes that a human psychologically achieves 'wholeness'. By applying this theory to Siddhartha's journey towards self-discovery, the author has skillfully concluded his viewpoint. The book in hand is a true example of juxtaposing beautiful expression with logical argumentation. The diction, style and contents of the book do not, at any point, lead the reader astray from reading it and most of the readers, I am sure, will find this book as interesting as to finish it in just one sitting. The references made to Hesse's biographical notes and textual allusions from his novel Siddhartha make it yet more alluring for, especially, the fan club of Bildungsroman novels and other writings related to self- actualization and individuation. Since this is the first publication by this author in English language, I'd like to wish him all the best and hope to see more of his publications soon. Milena Rampoldi, ProMosaik LAPH

The author hails from Pakistan. He is a poet and creative writer. Being a PhD scholar in English literature, the author has been teaching at various universities and colleges for the last around 18 years. He has also had the felicity of serving in the Middle East for three years. In addition to his major field of interest, he also holds a degree of law and takes keen interest in a number of other fields ranging from translation studies and law to theology and politics. His poetry in Urdu language is already earning him a good name in the country.