Thirteenth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

This paper explores how Nicanor Parra’s antipoetry can help us negotiate the role of religion in Chile (and by extension in other secular democracies with deep religious roots). The aim of this study is to illustrate how Parra’s antipoetry offers a relationship to the divine that prompts productive dialogue in a pluralistic society. As Chile is currently a beacon of hope for those seeking a better life in South America, it is worth reviewing the role of religion in a country that is facing serious protests from angry citizens, violent attacks from indigenous Mapuche, an enormous influx of immigrants, and an ever-more-difficult drought—all of which provide an important context for the recent election of President Boric, with his ties to a communist party, that further calls into question religion’s place in Chilean policy and politics. The disciplinary framework for this study includes literature, rhetoric, and philosophy. The methods used in this study include literary critique, textual analysis, and the application of rhetorical and philosophical principles. Close re-reading and theoretical review make up the knowledge activities of this interpretive study. The result of this study shows that Nicanor Parra’s unique and influential antipoetry provides a road map for a shared, fruitful approach to religious belief, in part via the notion of “antistrophos,” and in part via Ludwig Wittgenstein’s view of the mystical. In conclusion, such an approach could be put to good use to confront social and political strife in any secular, pluralistic society.