Thich Nhat Hanh and the Literature of Interbeing: Origins, Development, and Continuation

Abstract: This thesis takes a look at the origin, development and continuation of Thich Nhat Hanh’s literature (TNH). To do so, I first establish necessary Buddhist concepts and situate them in relation to Western ideas. I take special interest in the role of mindfulness and the Insight of Interbeing. I then explore the role of literature in traditional Buddhism, taking particular interest in the kōan. The following part looks at the development of TNH’s literature and considers it in relation to history and Buddhist philosophy. This part explores notably his poetry and calligraphy. The final part of this thesis is an exploration of different literary devices used at Plum Village, the monastery founded by TNH, and how they relate to the practice of mindfulness and the Insight of Interbeing. The conclusion reflects on the meaning of this literature for contemporary time and suggests different applications of the Insight of Interbeing in the field of English Literature.