Liquid Meaning in Sanskrit Poetics

Abstract

Chapter three surveys classical Indian literary theory and looks at how rasa (liquid meaning) became considered to be the goal of the literary work of art. The chapter considers a vision of the poetic work of art that is radically different from the models of private, silent reading that most Westerners have been brought up with. The text discusses how rasa is achieved through resonant suggestion, and how the meaning of a poem is understood in terms of its taste. The production of rasa is viewed through classical Indian aesthetics as well as though works of Western literary critics who have put forth resonant ideas. The Meghadūta is seen as an exemplary work in this regard.