Introduction:
When you first read Dhoodaan’s poem “Likaaco,” you might find the language tough to get through. His words aren’t immediately clear and need some real thought. But, if you use a Somali dictionary and spend time digging into the vocabulary, you’ll see that Dhoodaan was much more than just a poet. His poetry is packed with deep philosophical wisdom, showing a rare and impressive level of intellect.
Dhoodaan’s work goes beyond regular poetry; it blends literary art with philosophical thought. To truly understand his poems, you need a solid grasp of both language and philosophy. Nowadays, it’s mostly literature experts, philosophers, and seasoned poets who can unpack the layers of meaning in his verses.
Dhoodaan lived in a society that sometimes struggled to grasp his advanced insights and philosophical ideas. His thoughts were ahead of his time, making his work a goldmine of intellectual and cultural value. Surprisingly, it was timely then, and it’s still timely now. Which proves his thought process and his higher intellect and wisdom.
In this article, I’ll dive into some verses from “Likaaco” to show how Dhoodaan’s poetry is deeply connected with philosophical ideas. By looking at these links, we can better appreciate the incredible depth of his work and the rich philosophical tradition in Somali poetry. Plus, we’ll see that even the most profound thoughts can sometimes benefit from a little humor and plain language.
Human Desire and Divine Will:
The poem begins by reflecting on the interplay between human desires and divine will: “Aadmiga hawaa lagu larbee, waxa u laacaaya / Kolba libinta qaar Eebahay, waa u liilgaline” (Desires motivate people, but only some receive success from God). This reflects the long-standing philosophical debate over free will and determinism. Human ambitions motivate action, yet the poet suggests that divine intervention is required for ultimate success. This concept is consistent with Stoic philosophy, which teaches acceptance of events beyond one’s control as part of the natural order.
The Stoics, such as Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, advocated focusing on our actions and attitudes, emphasizing the importance of internal virtue and self-control. They held that while we can work hard and strive for our objectives, fate, or the divine will, frequently determines the results. This acceptance of what we cannot control leads to a sense of inner peace and resilience as we align our will with the natural order of the universe.
In the context of the poem, Dhoodaan acknowledges the human drive to achieve and succeed but tempers it with the understanding that not all efforts will result in success. This is so because, in the poet’s opinion, a higher power determines success to some extent. This interplay between human effort and divine will echoes the Stoic emphasis on accepting the limits of our control while striving to act virtuously within those limits.
Learning Through Suffering:
In the lines, “Qofna lurkiyo ciilkaa bartoo, luun afkaw mariye / Ragse laqan fariiduu noqdaa, amase waa liide,” some people learn through suffering and bitterness, speaking of it from experience. However, others become wise through trials, or they fail. The poet addresses the transformative power of suffering. This theme is central to the philosophies of Friedrich Nietzsche and the existentialists.
Nietzsche famously argued that what does not kill us makes us stronger, emphasizing that personal growth often comes through enduring and overcoming hardships. He believed that suffering is an integral part of life that can lead to greater strength, wisdom, and resilience. Nietzsche’s philosophy encourages embracing challenges as opportunities for self-improvement and development.
Similarly, existentialists like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus explored how individuals find meaning and authenticity in life by confronting and embracing their existential challenges and suffering. Sartre posited that humans are condemned to be free, meaning they must navigate the inherent difficulties of existence without a predefined purpose, creating meaning through their choices and actions. Camus, on the other hand, introduced the idea of the absurd, the conflict between humans’ search for meaning and the indifferent universe. He suggested that embracing this absurdity without surrendering to nihilism leads to a more profound appreciation of life.
The poet’s reflection on learning through suffering aligns with these philosophical views. It acknowledges that suffering is a fundamental aspect of the human experience, capable of leading to significant personal growth and wisdom. However, it also recognizes the dual nature of suffering, where some individuals emerge stronger and wiser, while others may falter and fail.
By addressing the dual outcomes of suffering—wisdom or failure—the poet captures the existential reality that life’s challenges can have varying impacts on individuals. This nuanced view underscores the importance of resilience, perspective, and the willingness to learn from hardship.
Personal Balance:
The poet’s assertion, “Ana labada cayn kuma jiree, laan badhaan ahaye” (I do not belong to either type; I am a moderate branch), highlights the importance of balance and moderation. This notion closely aligns with Aristotle’s concept of the Golden Mean, which advocates for moderation and balance in all aspects of life as the path to virtue and happiness.
Aristotle believed that virtues lie at the mean between two extremes of excess and deficiency. For instance, courage is the difference between recklessness and cowardice, and generosity is the difference between wastefulness and stinginess. Living a balanced life, according to Aristotle, leads to eudaimonia, or human flourishing. Eudaimonia is achieved through the practice of virtuous behavior and the maintenance of harmony in one’s actions and emotions.
The poet’s self-description as a “moderate branch” reflects this philosophical ideal. By positioning himself as neither extreme nor extreme, he emphasizes the value of moderation and balance. This balanced approach to life’s ups and downs is portrayed as key to achieving well-being and stability. The poet suggests that moderation allows for a more sustainable and fulfilling existence, where one can navigate challenges and successes without being overwhelmed by either.
Physical Strength and Weakness:
The verses, “Nimaan luggi jabnayn baan ahiyo, xoogga lawyadu e / Hayeeshee laxaad kuma socdee, laangadhaan ahaye” (I am someone whose legs are not broken and whose tendons are strong, yet I do not walk with full strength; I limp), illustrate the duality of human physical existence. This imagery speaks to the broader human condition of having both strengths and vulnerabilities.
Philosophers like Søren Kierkegaard and existentialists emphasized the acceptance of one’s limitations as a pathway to authentic living. Kierkegaard, often considered the father of existentialism, explored the notion of embracing one’s inherent flaws and limitations as essential to achieving true self-understanding and authenticity. He believed that recognizing and confronting our weaknesses leads to a deeper and more meaningful existence.
Similarly, existentialist philosophers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus argued that acknowledging the inherent limitations and absurdities of life is crucial for living authentically. They posited that individuals must confront their vulnerabilities and the limitations imposed by their physical and existential conditions to find genuine meaning and purpose.
The poet’s acknowledgment of his physical condition—strong yet limping—symbolizes the human experience of grappling with both capabilities and limitations. By accepting Due to our awareness of our intellectual limitations, this Socratic method of inquiry encourages a never-ending quest for knowledge. The admission of ignorance is the first step towards acquiring true knowledge. He believed that by questioning everything and recognizing our cognitive limitations, we open ourselves up to genuine understanding and wisdom. Due to our awareness of our intellectual limitations, this Socratic method of inquiry encourages a never-ending quest for knowledge.
The poet’s acknowledgment of his intellectual limitations, despite having a healthy mind and heart, aligns with this philosophical tradition. It underscores the importance of humility in the pursuit of knowledge. By admitting that we do not know everything, we create space for learning and personal development. This acceptance of our cognitive limitations is a fundamental aspect of many philosophical traditions that value the pursuit of wisdom.
Moreover, this humility fosters a mindset of lifelong learning. It reminds us that intellectual growth is a continuous process that involves questioning our assumptions and being open to new ideas and perspectives. This approach not only enhances our understanding but also cultivates a deeper sense of empathy and connection with others.
Societal Critique and Responsibility:
While the poem primarily focuses on personal reflection, its broader implications critique societal issues like corruption and exploitation, as hinted at in the poet’s experiences and observations. This critique resonates with Karl Marx’s analysis of societal power structures and Michel Foucault’s exploration of how these structures shape knowledge and behavior.
Karl Marx’s focus on the inequities and alienation within capitalist societies parallels the poet’s concerns about the misuse of resources and corruption. Marx argued that capitalist societies inherently create divisions between the wealthy and the poor, leading to the exploitation and alienation of the working class. The poet’s observations reflect a similar dissatisfaction with how societal resources are mismanaged and the resulting impact on individuals and communities.
Michel Foucault’s examination of power dynamics offers a lens through which to understand the systemic issues highlighted in the poem. Foucault explored how power is exercised within society, not just through overt control but also through subtle means that shape knowledge, behavior, and societal norms. His work emphasizes the pervasive nature of power and its influence on every aspect of life, from institutions to individual interactions.
The poet’s critique suggests a call for greater awareness and action against social injustices. By highlighting these issues, the poem encourages readers to reflect on their roles within societal structures and to recognize the importance of addressing corruption and exploitation. This call to action aligns with both Marx’s and Foucault’s advocacy for challenging existing power structures and striving for a more equitable society.
Application to Contemporary Life:
The insights from the poem are highly applicable to contemporary life. Acceptance of limitations can lead to a more fulfilling and less stressful existence, promoting mental health and well-being. Recognizing and accepting our limitations allows us to focus on what we can control and improve, reducing unnecessary stress and fostering a sense of peace and contentment. This acceptance is crucial in a world that often pressures individuals to achieve unrealistic standards.
Embracing adversity as a source of growth encourages resilience, an essential quality for navigating the challenges of the modern world. Resilience helps us adapt to change, recover from setbacks, and continue moving forward despite difficulties. By viewing challenges as opportunities for personal development, we can cultivate a mindset that enhances our ability to cope with life’s inevitable hardships.
Striking for balance in all aspects of life helps prevent burnout and fosters sustainable success. Achieving a balance between work, personal life, and leisure is key to maintaining long-term productivity and happiness. The poem’s advocacy for moderation aligns with contemporary understandings of work-life balance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining harmony to ensure overall well-being.
Conclusion: The Philosophical Synthesis
In conclusion, the poem serves as a rich tapestry of philosophical reflections, weaving together themes of duality, ethics, resilience, and societal critique. It exemplifies how poetry can distill complex philosophical ideas into accessible and emotive narratives, capturing the essence of the human experience. By drawing on diverse philosophical traditions, the poet offers timeless wisdom that resonates with readers across cultures and generations.
The poem challenges readers to reflect on their own lives, embrace the inherent duality of human existence, and acknowledge both their strengths and weaknesses. It encourages ethical living and calls for resilience in the face of adversity, reminding us that growth often arises from overcoming challenges. Moreover, the poem serves as a poignant critique of societal issues, urging readers to actively engage in creating a better world.
Through this synthesis of thought and emotion, the poet provides profound insights that continue to inspire and guide. By exploring the complexities of human nature and society, the poem prompts introspection and encourages readers to strive for personal growth and contribute positively to their communities. Ultimately, the poem serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring relevance of philosophy in navigating life’s complexities and striving for a more just and fulfilling existence.
Source:
Asher Horowitz | Department of Political Science | Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies | York University. (n.d.). https://www.yorku.ca/horowitz/courses/lectures/35_marx_alienation.html
Aristotle’s Doctrine of the Mean. (n.d.). https://www.plosin.com/work/AristotleMean.html
Existentialism (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy). (2023, January 6). https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/existentialism/
Marcus Aurelius’ philosophy: Self-Control as a Way to Succeed in Life. (2024, April 30). Headway Media. https://makeheadway.com/blog/marcus-aurelius-philosophy/
Kitazawa, E. (2023, February 23). Hardship Makes You Stronger Says Nietzsche: Here’s Why. Shortform Books. https://www.shortform.com/blog/hardship-makes-you-stronger/
Søren Kierkegaard (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy). (2023, May 22). https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/kierkegaard/
Understanding power for social change, powercube.net, IDS at Sussex University. (2010, March 8). Foucault: power is everywhere | Understanding power for social change | powercube.net | IDS at Sussex University. Understanding Power for Social Change | powercube.net | IDS at Sussex University | Understanding Power for Social Change. https://www.powercube.net/other-forms-of-power/foucault-power-is-everywhere/
Written by Mohamed Eid