Ridiculous, preposterous and extravagant phrases: On Imagination in Zhuangzi
Date Issued
2015
Date
2015
Author(s)
Hsu, Chia-Yu
Abstract
While Zhuangzi’s imaginative writing style is well-known, there is much less appreciation of the role imagination plays in Zhuangzi’s thought. This thesis therefore aims to investigate how and why Zhuangzi makes use of imagination to express its philosophical positions. To imagine is to create images transcending direct experience, and I suggest there are two types of imagination in Zhuangzi. One is a rhetorical device made up of unusual images, giant creatures, dreams in dreams, transformation, etc., designed to distract from and challenge ordinary ways of thinking and behaving (Chapter 1). The other type of imagination is the innovative projection of different possibilities onto things, making possible shifts in perspective. This state of open imagination discloses a space for transposition, where one can be free from a specific standpoint and transgress the most stable principles governing human values. These two types of imagination are closely tied up with Zhuangzi’s skeptical position, which questions any attempt to assert definite judgment (Chapter 2). The reason why Zhuangzi consciously uses imagination can be found in its reflection on language. Given the concern with uncertainty, instrumentality and the finiteness of language, the author weaves san yan (三言), and especially paradoxical “goblet words” (卮言), into his narratives to engage the audience into subjective understanding all while keeping a skeptical voice. This is the author’s imaginative play enticing the reader’s imagination to join (Chapter 3). It is hoped that this investigation will be helpful in discussing the philosophical value of literary forms, epistemology and ethics, as well as the topic of language in the study of Zhuangzi.
Subjects
Zhuangzi
imagination
transformation
perspectivism
language
Type
thesis