An Analysis of Positive Psychological Constructs in the Selected Poems of Swami Vivekananda

Abstract: This paper examines three significant poems by Swami Vivekananda “To the Awakened India”, “To the Fourth of July” and “Hold on Yet a While, Brave Heart” through the lens of Positive Psychology. It seeks to demonstrate how Vivekananda’s philosophical perspectives are exerted through his poetic vision. A vision that upholds inner strength, hope, resilience and freedom which in turn resonates the key concepts of Positive Psychology such as optimism, courage, meaningfulness and transcendence. Using qualitative thematic content analysis, the study reveals that these poems articulate a profound philosophy of human potential and flourishing which anticipates the qualities of Positive Psychology by more than a century ago which also lies in the age-old philosophy of Vedanta. The discussion connects Vivekananda’s poetic imagination with educational and psychological insights leading to positive education.