Van Wyk Louw Simbolis?

Abstract

In this article the question is posed whether one is justified in associating N.P. van Wyk Louw’s work with Symbolism as seen in terms of its being a historical art movement. At first sight some of the main characteristics of his work seem incompatible with the overall spirit of Symbolism. A close look is taken at these characteristics. They are weighed against typical characteristics of Symbolism. A number of common traits are discovered. Following this, a study of Van Wyk Louw’s utterances in his prose works is undertaken to establish the extent of his knowledge of the works of Symbolists and of Symbolism as such, The unfolding history of his contact with their work and with Symbolism is traced. Some revealing relations are uncovered. Having established a number of definite Symbolist traits in his work, his poetical oeuvre is projected against the set of fundamental characteristics of Symbolism as a phenomenon identified by S. Dresden in his book Symbolisme (1980). Seen at against this background, the range of symbolist features in his work shows up clearly. The conclusion reached is that Van Wyk Louw so thoroughly absorbed those characteristics of Symbolism that corresponded with his own creative personality that they have blended almost imperceptibly with the rest of his oeuvre, thereby creating the impression that they are fully native to his work.