[기상도]의 주제와 '태풍'의 의미

Abstract

This article focuses on revealing the meaning of 'typhoon' which appears in Kim Ki-rim’s masterpiece Weather Map. As you know, 'typhoon' is a key image of this work, closely related to the whole theme. Therefore, understanding the exact meaning of ‘typhoon’ is different from simply getting understanding symbolic motif of this work. Because of this importance, there have been many diverse opinions about 'typhoon'. Because of this importance, many opinions about 'typhoon' have been presented. Taking together these various opinions, the typhoon has been understood as a symbol of the confusion and the crisis caused by contradiction and corruption of modern civilization. This understanding is not fundamentally wrong, but it also does not have reach the definite meaning. In order to properly understand the meaning of 'typhoon' here, it is necessary to look at the intention of planning the title of this work, Weather Map. In short, Weather Map does not stay in "map" which simply reflecting weather conditions. It is a mean of 'forecasting' for predicting subtle changes in the situation to be developed in the future. It should be noted that all the informations, materials, and knowledges which Kim Ki-rim experienced as a reporter in this process had a profound impact on the concept and the planning process of this work. As it were, Kim Ki-rim's Weather Map is reflection of the imminent international situation at that time, and the key motif typhoon is symbol of coming World War. In other words, at the time of mid-1930s, Kim Ki-rim had already predicted that World War would inevitably occurs due to the conflict between imperialist powers. And the main stage is expected to be Asian Pacific including China. The important thing is that he expected : As a result of World War, imperialist powers who participated in this war will surely fall down. And harmonious world will be opened with the principle of new civilization to replace modernity. In this sense, main motif of this work, 'typhoon' does not simply mean destruction. It is rather a combination of active and active functions that eliminate all elements of contradiction, irrationality, and evil that modernity brings. Therefore, it needs to be understood that it corresponds to the meaning of 'purification'.