Being in the shadows

[Alyssa]

Siddhartha
Shadows are seen as a person's personal follower. They are a mirror image of ourselves, and of our past actions. Govinda is much like a shadow; always following, but never leading. He fears to be left alone and surrounded by the darkness of the world. When he is given the chance to stand alone, learn more, and become himself he takes the opportunity. Govinda is no longer "the shadow of the past, nor the shadow of the future", but an actual being just like everyone else (107). Govinda is seen as a shadow due to his love for following his friend. He "followed [Siddhartha] as a servant, friend, and companion"(5). Govinda worshipped Siddhartha and would "[always] make him happy"(5). He is not recognized by his good intentions, but only by his talents of following someone. Govinda cannot bear the thought of being alone without anyone to look to for guidance. He "[shows] anxiety in his face" at the thought of his friend finding their own destiny" (9). When Govinda is abandoned, he transforms from a follower to a leader; which in turn helps him become a part of the light. Govinda has been seeking for something to follow and leach onto for half of his life, but when he is set apart from people he finally becomes one with himself. The shadow is no longer following, but has now become a person as a whole.