In the voyage of life, one seeks to find a sense of contentment or a simple purpose to live. Many search for it through the materialistic side or even the spiritual side of life, a philosophy by which one lives through, a religion or self-principles. As humans we may go through many experiences, whether challenges or joyful moments, to find that satisfaction of ourselves in our existences. The concept of being born for a purpose helps the soul feel a sense of complacency and one will do anything in it’s power to reach that Nirvana. Herman Hesse exhibits these examples in his novel Siddhartha. He reveals the journey of the protagonist, Siddhartha, in his expedition of his discovery of his very own contentment. Though Siddhartha undergoes many …show more content…
Once again, Govinda follows. The illustrious one, Buddha, was able to transcend secular life in order to attain nirvana— an admirable feat. His immense wisdom and peacefulness was evident through his demeanor and his laudable teachings. The Buddha appeared to be the perfect leader that was able to entice crowds. Govinda, as an intrinsic follower, decided to vow his allegiance to the Illustrious one. Conversely, Siddhartha did not. After a discussion with Gotama, Siddhartha decided to continue his journey under a new premise— a new goal to search for himself— due to the realization that self-awareness could provide the wisdom necessary to overcome discontentment. This time Govinda did not follow and without a companion Siddhartha, for the first time, was physically alone. Yet, he believes it is for the best. Acquaintance with oneself is far more significant than acquaintance with others. “He has robbed me, yet has given me something of greater value. He robbed me of my friend… But he has given to me Siddhartha, myself.” (Page …show more content…
He meets an easygoing ferryman who carries him over the river to a new stage in his life. An unprecedented sense of impulse is awakened within him, demonstrated by his lust for Kamala. In his encounters with Kamala, he sought to “learn the pleasures of love” (Page 54). In order to enchant her with monetary wealth, Siddhartha becomes a merchant and, curiously, is quite proficient. Ultimately he is able to seduce Kamala and become financially affluent. The secular life brought him temporary joy but directed his soul closer towards the abyss. Of course he enjoyed the riches, but it was just a superficial remedy to his still discontentment and consequently drove him further away from his self-awareness. He was no longer an awakened individual living his life, but instead a dormant spectator embodying an empty, detached, and confined