The Use of Dionysus, Demeter and Kore Myths: William Carlos Williams’ Mythical Imagination

The Use of Dionysus, Demeter and Kore Myths: William Carlos Williams’ Mythical Imagination

&nbsp;&nbsp;The ancient Greek myths always stimulate William Carlos Williams&quot; poetic imagination. Williams uses the themes and motifs of the Dionysus, Demeter and Kore myths in his poetry. Significantly, the myths Williams uses are closely related to the “female principle” which represents the liquid principle in things, regeneration and fertility.<BR>&nbsp;&nbsp;Williams clearly recognizes the indivisible connection of the myths of Dionysus with Demeter and Kore. He states that his poetic imagination should pursue the Dionysian fluidity which offends Apollonian rigidity. Also, Williams&quot; inspiring Kore and Demeter are the epitome of his female images, embodying all versions of his female principle. Throughout the Demeter/Kore myth, Williams has the vision of eternal return. Thus, in many poems including “The Wanderer” Williams shows the themes and motifs of loss and recovery, of immersion and regeneration, and of death and rebirth in endless cycle.<BR>&nbsp;&nbsp;The myths of Dionysus, Demeter and Kore give rich evocation of the female principle which Williams always emphasizes. Employing the myths of Dionysus, Demeter and Kore as his poetic subject matter, Williams firmly believes he could overcome the chaotic reality that his era faces. Accordingly, the recurrent myths of Dionysus, Demeter and Kore in the poetry of Williams bring a vision of a New World to overcome the barren modern wasteland.