Through the Lens of “Kigo”: Understanding Japanese American WWII Poetry
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
English Literature
Minor
Chinese Studies / East Asian Studies
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Julie Cyzewski
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
Rather than analyzing these concepts separately, this paper argues that to understand the full context of Japanese American internment camp poetry, one must realize that religion and poetics cannot be separated. By understanding the religious context of Japanese American poetry, the symbolism’s full potential is unlocked for the reader to appreciate. As trauma literary scholar Dr. Amit Kumar states, “By experimenting with diverse narrative forms and symbolism, authors enrich these explorations, offering readers a profound understanding of the complexities of human endurance,” (Kumar, 33).
Spring Scholars Week 2026
English and Philosophy Panel
Through the Lens of “Kigo”: Understanding Japanese American WWII Poetry
Rather than analyzing these concepts separately, this paper argues that to understand the full context of Japanese American internment camp poetry, one must realize that religion and poetics cannot be separated. By understanding the religious context of Japanese American poetry, the symbolism’s full potential is unlocked for the reader to appreciate. As trauma literary scholar Dr. Amit Kumar states, “By experimenting with diverse narrative forms and symbolism, authors enrich these explorations, offering readers a profound understanding of the complexities of human endurance,” (Kumar, 33).