For millennia, the nature of the human mind has been a subject of intense fascination, from disciplines as diverse as literature, cognitive science and philosophy to artificial intelligence. Is it, at its core, a sophisticated computational machine, processing information with cold, hard logic? Or does it encompass a far richer, more nuanced spectrum of experience, colored by emotion, intuition, and the subjective lens through which we perceive the world? Or is the self merely a construct of our language, and the stories we tell ourselves as we navigate the world? These fundamental questions serve as the intellectual and emotional frame of reference for Anatta: An International Anthology of Poetry about the Self (or non-Self), a groundbreaking new collection co-edited by M.K. Ajay and Virginia Fernández Collado, and proudly represented by the Asian Literary Agency. 

Anatta doesn’t presume to offer definitive answers to this age-old question. In fact it doesn’t even pretend to pursue answers, instead offering us perspectives and questions raised by the poems and poets in the anthology. It invites readers on a deeply introspective journey, a pilgrimage into the heart of consciousness as refracted through the myriad and often startling perspectives of thirty-one internationally acclaimed poets. It is a collection that dares to challenge the limitations of purely computational models of the mind and the limitations of conventional literary criticism alike, beckoning us to explore the multifaceted, often contradictory, and ultimately elusive nature of selfhood and the human experience as revealed through poetry. At a time when the surge of AI overpowers our deeply held assumptions about the unique capacities of the human mind and selfhood, Anatta restores a dose of insight through one of the best expressions of human creativity, namely, poetry. By pitting the best of human creativity against the paradigm of a computing or computational mind, and exploring what it means to have a sense of self (or non-self), we come away with a renewed understanding which only poetry – with its heady mix of image, sensation, music, emotions and words – is equipped to render.

The Computational Mind: A Powerful, Yet Incomplete, Paradigm

The prevailing scientific model, particularly within cognitive science, sometimes portrays the human mind as a computational system, though admittedly the debate even within the sciences is far more nuanced. As a post graduate neuroscience buff and a Buddhist philosophy student, Ajay is deeply aware of these discourses, it appears. The computational theory of mind, a cornerstone of the modern perspective, posits that mental processes are fundamentally computations performed by the brain. Proponents of this theory draw parallels between the intricate neural networks of the brain and the architecture of a computer, suggesting that cognitive functions such as problem-solving, memory, and decision-making can be understood as algorithmic processes, capable of being simulated by sophisticated computational models. The remarkable success of artificial intelligence in replicating certain aspects of human behavior, particularly in defined domains, lends further credence to this computational paradigm. DeepSeek, and progress in humanoid robots, led by China is strengthening the feeling that what we once considered as uniquely human may after all be computations which can be replicated in inanimate elements.

However, the inherent limitations of the computational model become strikingly evident when we consider the full breadth and depth of human experience, as revealed through poetry. Emotions, for instance, those messy, unpredictable, and often irrational forces that drive our actions and shape our perceptions, defy easy quantification and algorithmic replication. The sheer depth and complexity of human feelings, the often inexplicable nature of emotional responses, and the deeply subjective and individual nature of emotional experiences are the wellsprings of human creativity, and they resist straightforward computational representation. Similarly, intuition—that seemingly instantaneous grasp of understanding that often circumvents conscious, deliberate reasoning, that “gut feeling” that guides our decisions—presents a formidable challenge to the purely computational view. Poetry, perhaps more than any other human endeavour, stitches creativity born from feelings, emotions, structures, memories and our bodies together into an art form. 

Moreover, the phenomenon of spontaneous creativity, a defining characteristic of artistic expression and a driving force behind innovation, poses a significant obstacle for purely computational explanations. The creative process, whether it involves composing music, painting, or, indeed, writing poetry, transcends logical, linear, step-by-step processes. It frequently involves leaps of imagination, unforeseen insights, serendipitous connections, and subconscious processes that resist reduction to neat algorithmic procedures. This inherent creativity, so evident in the very act of composing poetry, highlights the inadequacy of a purely computational framework in fully capturing the dynamism and richness of the human mind. If there is a metaphysical self in humans, or any underlying essence which holds an individual existence together, then perhaps poetry is one of its best imprints or expressions. The notion that there is a human self, of course, is something which some poems in this anthology and the historical Buddha himself challenges. 

Poetry as Lived Experience: Transcending the Algorithmic

The anthology focuses on poems exploring the nature of the self (“I”), in its varied manifestations—from the enduring, stable self to the fleeting, fragmented, and even illusory self, and ultimately, the very absence of self. This multifaceted exploration is presented within a rich comparative philosophical context, drawing upon Western neuroscience, Eastern (especially Indian and Chinese), and particularly drawing on Buddhist traditions of philosophy of mind and cognitive science. This framework invites the reader to reconsider long-held assumptions about the nature of selfhood and human consciousness.

The poems themselves function as lived experiences, expressed through language that speaks directly to the complexities of emotion, perception, and memory. The very act of writing a poem—the transformative process of distilling subjective feelings, memories, and ideas into structured form—often involves a state of flow, an intuitive engagement that transcends the conscious, computational mind. This is apparent in the work of poets such as:

Agron Shele (Albania/Belgium), whose poem “This Time…” poignantly captures the transient nature of experience and the lingering effects of time and loss, reflecting the impermanence and flux of both external and internal realities. His work, deeply rooted in the cultural landscape of Albania and informed by his experiences in Belgium, has earned him multiple literary awards and established him as a prominent voice in Albanian literature.

Alvin Pang (Singapore), whose poem “There is a Moment” explores the subtle shift from the familiar to the unknown, the gradual loosening of prior certainties and the emergence of a new hesitation, a new understanding. A leading voice in contemporary Asian poetry, Pang’s work, often characterized by its sharp wit and insightful observations, has been translated into over 20 languages, highlighting the universality of the themes he explores.

Amir Or (Israel), whose poem “Here” delves into the complexities of self-representation and the limitations of language in expressing the full depth of human experience. Winner of numerous international literary awards, Or’s work is characterized by its profound emotional depth, its unflinching exploration of identity in a complex and often conflicted world, and its masterful use of language to evoke the intangible aspects of human consciousness.

Ashraf Aboul Yasid (Egypt), whose poem “The Memory of Silence” powerfully evokes the lingering presence of the past and the struggle to reconcile with loss and memory. President of the Asia Journalist Association and recipient of many prestigious awards, Yasid’s work often explores themes of cultural identity, history, and memory, reflecting the rich and complex tapestry of Egyptian society.

M.K. Ajay (India/Hong Kong), co-editor of the anthology, whose poem “Centered” offers a deeply personal exploration of self-awareness, depicting the self as arising from the communion of bare perception and nature. The poem’s central image of “a pond within the middle of my mind” suggests that self-awareness is not an isolated phenomenon but rather a product of the constant interaction between internal and external forces.

These poets, and many others featured in Anatta, use language not merely to describe but to embody the complexities of consciousness. Their poems evoke deep emotion, challenge preconceived notions of self, and prompt reflection on the nature of human experience itself. Their staggeringly different styles and treatment of the theme, reflecting their unique cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and journeys towards insight, only enhance the anthology’s scope and power.

Vipassana Meditation and the Embodied Self: Finding Stillness in the Storm

The insights provided by practices such as Vipassana meditation further contextualize the anthology’s exploration of the self and the limits of computational models. This ancient Buddhist technique emphasizes mindfulness—the careful observation of thoughts and sensations without judgment. Through consistent practice, practitioners cultivate a profound understanding of the mind’s inherent dynamism, its constant flux, its capacity for spontaneous shifts in emotion, and its capacity for a rich internal world that is not easily captured through a computational framework. This is an experiential insight, a direct awareness of the mind’s workings, that strongly suggests a perspective beyond the limits of purely computational models.

Vipassana also emphasizes “non-doing,” a focus on simply being rather than on achieving, a stark contrast to the often goal-oriented, task-driven nature of computational thinking. In Vipassana, profound insights arise from stillness and observation, from letting go of the compulsive need to process information. This emphasis on presence and awareness emphasizes a different mode of knowing—one that values experience as much as, or more than, rational, analytical processing.

The poems in Anatta frequently resonate with this emphasis on mindfulness and embodied experience, though the poets themselves may not be Vipannasa practitioners. The work of many poets are essentially mindfulness meditations, or born from such meditation.

Elaine Vernay (Switzerland), whose poem “Wandering Around” uses vivid imagery of nature to explore the transient nature of perception and the fluidity of experience, reflecting the impermanence emphasized in Buddhist thought. Her work, published in multiple languages, has established her as a significant voice in Swiss and European literature.

Helmuth Niederle (Austria), whose “Seven Poems” employs striking imagery to explore the interconnectedness of nature and the self, using the natural world to challenge preconceived notions of identity. His poetry, translated into numerous languages, has made him a prominent figure in Austrian literary circles.

Ismail Diadié Haidara (Mali), whose poem explores the relationship between memory, identity, and place, highlighting the impact of lived experience on the self. A respected historian, philosopher, and poet from Mali, Haidara’s work is known for its profound insights into how culture’s impact and personal experience are intertwined.

These examples illustrate the anthology’s focus on poems that connect directly to the insights of contemplative practices like Vipassana. The poets featured often use sensory details and vivid imagery to communicate the complexity of experience, highlighting the importance of embodied awareness and the limits of purely rational explanations of human consciousness.

Anatta: A Symphony of Selves

The title Anatta, a Pali word meaning “not-self,” points towards a central theme in the anthology: the impermanence of all things, including the self. Buddhist philosophy challenges the notion of a fixed, unchanging self. Anatta proposes instead a fluid, ever-changing entity, constantly shaped by our experience as a body-mind (Nama-Tula) and the world in which it lives.

The anthology’s poets explore this theme from diverse perspectives, reflecting their distinct cultural and spiritual backgrounds. Some present the self as a unified, consistent entity, while others depict a fragmented self, deeply impacted by memory, external forces, and the inherent contradictions of human experience. Still other poems question the very existence of a fixed self, suggesting that the “I” is ultimately an illusion, a construct of perception and interpretation.

The anthology’s diverse voices are essential to its overall effect. Poets such as:

Jane Hirshfield (United States), whose poem “To Be a Person” examines the complexities and contradictions of self, offering a witty, insightful, and profoundly human perspective. She is a modern “Great”, a celebrated poet, essayist, and translator, Hirshfield has received numerous awards and fellowships for her work exploring themes of nature, identity, and the human condition.

Kazim Ali (United States), whose poem “Mountain Time” uses vivid imagery of landscape and journey to explore the relationship between the self and the natural world. A noted poet, translator, and essayist, and arguably the most influential Sufi poet of this generation, Ali’s work explores themes of identity, culture, and spirituality, often drawing on his experiences as a queer Muslim American.

Ko Un (South Korea), whose poem “A Certain Joy” reveals a unique understanding of the self as interconnected with others, emphasizing shared human experience and the fluidity of identity. Ko Un is a prolific and highly acclaimed Korean poet. He is a highly controversial figure in his country, whose work has been translated into numerous languages and has earned him significant international recognition, including multiple nominations for the Nobel Prize in Literature. The poems in this anthology tell us why he is a modern master.

Lana Derkac (Croatia), whose poems “Windows, Doors” and “A Birthmark” use compelling imagery to explore the themes of identity, transformation, and the fluidity of experience, reflecting the challenges of fixed identities in a world marked by constant change. Her award-winning poetry has been translated into numerous languages, and she is recognized as one of the most important voices in contemporary Balkan literature.

Les Wicks (Australia), whose poem “The Compassion, Rut & Self-Proposition” uses striking imagery and neuroscientific insights to explore the relationship between subjective experience, the body, and the brain’s activity. A celebrated Australian performance poet, Wicks’ work often incorporates scientific concepts to examine the nature of consciousness and identity, creating a unique blend of art and science.

Luis Filipe Sarmento (Portugal), whose poem “I Know Nothing About Love” offers a complex and multifaceted exploration of love and self, using evocative imagery and intellectual insights to challenge conventional notions of the subject. A highly accomplished writer, translator, and film director, Sarmento’s work often reflects a deep engagement with modernism and post-modern thought, pushing the boundaries of language and form.

The anthology also features compelling contributions from from the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Vijay Seshadri. His poem, “Memoir,” grapples with the complexities of identity and the elusive nature of truth. Seshadri’s work, known for its unflinching honesty and its exploration of the human condition, challenges readers to confront the uncomfortable aspects of selfhood and to embrace the inherent contradictions of human experience. The poem’s exploration of shame, joy, and the search for meaning resonates deeply with the anthology’s overall themes.

Anatta: A Timely and Important Contribution

Anatta is far more than simply an anthology of poems; it is a significant contribution to several fields: literary studies, philosophy of mind, cognitive science, and even the ongoing dialogue concerning computational models of consciousness and AI. It presents a new and provocative way of understanding the self—as fluid, multifaceted, and deeply interwoven with experience, culture, and spirituality—in a way that is both enriching and profoundly impactful.

Its carefully curated selection of poems, each exploring multiple aspects of selfhood and connected to varied philosophical perspectives, provides a deeply compelling exploration of the nature of consciousness that goes beyond the strictly computational models frequently employed in scientific and technological spheres. This exploration of non-computational elements of the mind such as intuition, imagination, and subjective experience brings a much-needed humanistic dimension to the discussion.

The poems within Anatta also offer readers a powerful opportunity for personal reflection. Engaging with the poets’ exploration of selfhood can be a catalyst for personal introspection, encouraging readers to critically examine their own conceptions of identity, consciousness, and their place within the larger world. The anthology’s inclusivity and richness of distinguished global poetic voices, each writing at the peak of their creative powers, is itself a valuable contribution.  This book will resonate with readers from diverse backgrounds, challenging pre-conceived notions and fostering a deeper engagement with the human condition, though it is by no means an easy read. Perhaps that’s the point too, that some of the best things in life need close attention and reflection to be savoured. 

By bringing together these extraordinary poetic voices, the anthology challenges assumptions, fosters dialogue, and offers a profound meditation on the enduring mystery of the self and the limits of our attempts to fully comprehend the complexity of the human mind. It is a book that will challenge, inspire, and leave a lasting impression on its readers. 

Anatta promises to be a significant addition to contemporary literature and philosophy of mind/AI, offering a unique and timely exploration of the human condition.