Research in Contemporary World Literature

Research in Contemporary World Literature

An analysis of contrasts and mythical dimensions in poetry: The image of the onion in Neruda and Szymborska's works through the lens of Claude Lévi-Strauss's theories

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Fereshteh Darvishvand
Abbas Farhadnejad
Department of French Language and Literature, Faculty of Foreign Languages and Literatures, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
10.22059/jor.2025.386406.2589
Abstract
Dualities and myths are among the key concepts explored by Claude Lévi-Strauss, the contemporary anthropologist and theorist, throughout his research. He seeks to understand the relationship between the world and humanity. This study examines cultural and human dualities in Pablo Neruda's poem "Ode to the Onion" and Wisława Szymborska's "Onion", analyzing the symbolic structures and oppositions in these works through Lévi-Strauss's theories. A simple element like an onion, rooted in daily human life, can reveal a complex relationship between humans and their world, even in today's modern era. Neruda sees the onion as a representation of social conditions. He emphasizes contrasts between poverty and wealth, and the connection between nature and culture, presenting the onion as a symbol of individuals and society. On the other hand, Szymborska, with a similar approach, adopts a philosophical perspective and portrays the onion's layers as a symbol of order and purity against human chaos. This analysis aims to explore how each poet views these themes, as both use these symbols to achieve a deeper understanding of cultural and social realities. Ultimately, the findings highlight the role of poetry in today's world as a modern myth, capable of explaining social and human complexities and contradictions.
Keywords
Claude Lévi-Strauss
Duality
Myth
Poetry
Onion
Wisława Szymborska
Pablo Neruda
Subjects
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Research in Contemporary World Literature
Volume 31, Issue 3
Summer 2026
Pages 575-594