Norwid's Remarks on Truth

Abstract

Even the number of cases in which Norwid uses the word truth (908) indicates the importance of this notion in his works. Referring to the ancient triad the author of Vademecum usually places truth in the context of the two remaining transcendentals, that is good and beauty. The significance of truth in a man's life and the imperative of bearing testimony to truth is a characteristic feature of Norwid's thought; and Norwid was a man of faith with clearly Christian roots. The parable that – in the poet's opinion – is the most adequate way to reach the mystery of being, has a significant place in his reflection on truth. The view on reality is also the basis for reflection on its description and for distinguishing between the “author” and the “vulgarizer”. Truth – for Norwid – plays the key role in art, through which a man reaches “the truth of the prototype”. Truth, in the poet's opinion, is also organically inscribed in the word. Its tie with Logos that “was in the beginning” and then “was incarnated” sets exacting requirements for artistic activities, for whom the word is material. Norwid briefly acknowledges this imperative: “I am not a master-of-the-word but a servant-of-the-word”.

In conclusion it may be said that truth is one of the most important notions in Norwid's world. A poet who is so sensitive to the transcendental dimension of life was in constant search of truth in art, history, revelation. Following truth, bearing testimony to truth – was the way chosen by Norwid as an artist, thinker, but also a man of deep trust. Although the epistemological dimension was important in Norwid's reflection, logical truth did no focus his attention. He was rather interested in transcendental, ontological and existential truth. A special sensitivity to the theological-moral aspect of truth is a fairly clear feature of Norwid's poetry and thought.