Identity and the Quest for Meaning: Existentialism in Vuong’s Selected Poems

Abstract

The present research analyzes the existential theme in the poetry of Ocean Vuong, focusing on identity, alienation, and contemporary society’s quest for meaning. In the words of Jean-Paul Sartre, "existence precedes essence." Similarly, Vuong’s poems engage with the suffering of existence while questioning the self in an alienated and often unfriendly universe. This study focuses on key poems, including Aubade with Burning City from the collection of Night Sky with Exit Wounds and Someday I’ll Love Ocean Vuong, to understand how he addresses the perennial problems of loss, history, self, and identity in a universe devoid of meaning, or where all meaning must be earned. The research demonstrates that Vuong's work is important, reflecting upon existential issues in the modern world, constrained within the boundaries of an unlimited arsenal where all topics are debated. Thus, it facilitates a deeper understanding of existential questions regarding the contemporary world, especially when paired with Vuong's art. The paper intends to depict Vuong’s dimension of existentialism and its significance for readers aiming to carve out their own identity in the world.