Photo: William J. Jackson at home in the Connecticut River Valley, where his writing and creative energy continue to soar.
Exploring Indian Bhakti Traditions Through Scholarship and Storytelling
William J. Jackson blends intellectual rigor with creative storytelling, exploring Bhakti traditions, cultural archetypes, and generosity. From novels to scholarly works, his writing unites scholarship and art for timeless, global resonance.
William J. Jackson stands as a luminary in the literary and academic worlds, weaving deep scholarship with gripping storytelling that transcends boundaries of time, geography, and genre. From his scholarly exploration of South Indian Bhakti traditions to his vivid novels set in disparate cultural backdrops, Jackson’s work seamlessly blends intellectual depth with creative flair. His books—spanning titles like Tyagaraja and the Renewal of Tradition, Gypsy Escapades, and The Wisdom of Generosity—invite readers on a journey filled with history, symbolism, and a profound sense of humanity.
A lifelong learner and multifaceted writer, Jackson attributes his unique narrative approach to the rich layers of his personal and professional life. From a Midwest American upbringing steeped in Catholic traditions to transformative experiences in theatre, academia, and years of immersion in Indian culture, Jackson’s eclectic background has shaped the vibrant, multidimensional voice readers have come to admire. In a recent interview with Novelist Post Magazine, Jackson reflected on his journey, the fusion of his academic and creative endeavors, and the inspirations behind his body of work.
A literary luminary, Jackson masterfully combines storytelling with academic depth, creating works that inspire, illuminate, and bridge cultural boundaries.
Crafting Multidimensional Fiction
When asked about his process of blending humor, history, and suspense in novels like Gypsy Escapades, Jackson explained that his personal experiences and years of self-discovery enriched his storytelling abilities. He credits periods of growth in his twenties and later academic insights for helping him develop a narrative style that masterfully interweaves various flavors, moods, and atmospheres. He remarked, “In my twenties, I had nothing to say. But over the decades I became multifaceted, more able to wield different kinds of experience.”
A particularly noteworthy aspect of Jackson’s storytelling lies in his ability to authentically incorporate real cultural elements into fictional narratives. Citing his experiences in India, Jackson acknowledged how age-old customs might seem odd to modern readers. Yet, his aim remains to present these cultural elements as they are—rich in meaning, even if at odds with contemporary sensibilities. As Jackson puts it, “Exploring India means leaving behind, for the moment, your modern presuppositions and walking in the sandals of another worldview.”
Indian Bhakti Traditions: Scholarship with a Poet’s Soul
Jackson’s time in India was pivotal in shaping his academic pursuits and creative lens. His initial six-month stay in 1970 and later years of PhD research in the 1980s immersed him in South Indian Bhakti traditions—a focus seen prominently in scholarly works like Tyagaraja and the Renewal of Tradition. Translating Tyagaraja’s spiritual songs for a modern audience proved challenging yet exhilarating for Jackson, who sought to preserve their poetic beauty while making them accessible. Drawing inspiration from scholars like A.K. Ramanujan, he adopted a straightforward yet lyrical translation style, capturing the essence of these deeply spiritual works.
For Jackson, Bhakti traditions and philosophies such as Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras—where devotion to God aids enlightenment—not only enriched his academic studies but also influenced his creative process. His dual roles as a researcher and storyteller allowed him to explore themes like devotion, self-discovery, and resilience with authenticity.
Archetypes and Generosity: Guiding Themes
Jackson’s work often reflects the depth psychology of figures like Carl Jung, with archetypes playing a central role in his storytelling. Archetypal characters such as the Trickster, Mother, or Hero appear frequently in his narratives, offering timeless and universal dimensions to his stories. As he puts it, “Archetypes are rich codes of information. I find them helpful.” These psychological and symbolic underpinnings are part of what makes his fiction resonate across cultures.
Generosity is another recurring theme in Jackson’s work, explored in depth in The Wisdom of Generosity. Here, Jackson reflects on his own experiences—from volunteering at soup kitchens to his academic role in Philanthropic Studies—and how acts of service can profoundly shape our lives and narratives.
A Versatile Voice for the Ages
William J. Jackson’s writing is not confined to a single genre or tradition. Instead, he embraces what he describes as a “both/and” approach, appreciating the coexistence of scholarly research with creative storytelling. From bedtime stories for his daughter to novels inspired by folk legends and historical figures, Jackson’s work reflects a deep respect for the craftsmanship that each genre demands.
His heroes—writers like Rabindranath Tagore, James Baldwin, and Carl Sandburg—embody this same versatility, bridging fiction with essays, poetry, or biography. Jackson aspires to follow in their footsteps by exploring humanity, spirituality, and cultural diversity through his own multifaceted lens.
What’s Next?
While Jackson cherishes the cross-disciplinary work that has defined his career, he shows no signs of slowing down. Current projects include additional installments in the Gypsy Escapades series and a novel inspired by his great-aunt’s pioneering life during Colorado’s Gold Rush.
To aspiring writers who wish to merge academic and creative pursuits, Jackson offers a simple but profound piece of advice: “Only the impossible is worth pursuing.”
It is this spirit of intellectual curiosity and imaginative daring that defines the enduring appeal of William J. Jackson’s work—a rare and inspiring voice in contemporary literature.
Source: Novelist Post
