The Five People You Meet In Heaven Analysis

The experience of discovery can either challenge or affirm deeply held values and preconceived notions, and through reflection it can reshape ones identity and broaden their perception beyond the known to untold possibilities. The transforming effects of discovery may stimulate new ideas and lead to new worlds and values based on the limitations and possibilities of human experiences. William Shakespeare’s mastery as a playwright and his exploration into the transformative power of discovery is examined within his tragicomedy, The Tempest and enables links to be drawn to Peter Weir’s film Dead Poet’s Society along with Mitch Albom’s philosophical fiction, The Five People You Meet in Heaven, which altogether explore an unforseen discovery leading …show more content…
The notion of “carpe diem” and the transient nature of life, which is explored within The Dead Poets Society, resulted in the students changing the way they perceived themselves and the world around them. The confronting nature of discovery and its impact on human experiences is also conveyed through Prospero’s character who recognises that he had brought much of his grief upon himself and acknowledges his inevitable death through his metaphorical statement, “we are such as dreams are made on”. Similarly to Prospero, the students are also challenged by Professor Keating to see things from a new perspective, “boys, you must strive to find your own voice”, Keating utilises a determined tone as he urges the students to break out of the strict conformity of their school and encourages them to seize the day as they recognise their ultimate demise. The boy’s interpretation of “carpe diem” conveys the effect that one’s attitude can have on their discovery, as their secret group ultimately becomes a symbol of rebellion through reading poetry, meeting up with girls, smoking and playing the saxophone, which reveals their own personal examination into their relationship with themselves and the world around them. The consequence of ones discovery of a new world and values is revealed through Neil Perry, who as a result of discovering his true passion for acting, had to pay the price of his own life. Perry’s experience with his process of discovery exemplifies the challenging effects, which leads to the audience questioning the limitations and possibilities of the process of discovery. Correspondingly, the confronting nature of discovery is affirmed through The Five People You Meet In Heaven as the readers are confronted with their view on human experiences in relation to the interconnectedness of individual actions. During Eddie’s