Unveiling the Yearning: Mystical Journeys in the Poetry of Emily Dickinson and Mirabai

This research explores the convergence of mystical themes in the poetry of Emily Dickinson (1830-1886) and Mirabai (1498-1547). Despite their seemingly disparate backgrounds – Dickinson, a recluse in 19th-century America, and Mirabai, a 16th-century Indian princess – both poets grapple with the yearnings for the divine, the limitations of language in expressing the ineffable, and the transformative power of their encounters. Dickinson's introspective verses, characterised by fragmented language and dashes, navigate the mystical through a lens of self-reflection. In contrast, Mirabai's poetry pulsates with the passionate yearning of Bhakti mysticism, her verses brimming with imagery of divine love and surrender. Through an analysis of their works, this study reveals how both poets, though employing distinct styles and drawing from different traditions, capture the essence of the mystical experience and its enduring power to transform.