Loneliness In Storr's Solitude: A Return To The Self

What is loneliness? Some definitions in the literature are detached whereas others appear to show that the authors have themselves experienced the pain of loneliness. Loneliness is unique for every individual their for it can be difficult concept for everyone to understand. In this paper I hope to find what a true meaning of loneliness. I want to inform all readers to ponder this question and to find their own answers. Rokach states that ‘loneliness is as natural and integral a part of being human as are joy, hunger and self-actualisation. Humans are born alone, they experience the terror of loneliness in death, and often much loneliness in-between’ (Rokach 1990). Even though it is a universal phenomenon, it is surprising how difficult it was to define.
What makes the approach of loneliness even more confusing is the number of closely related concepts. There are many words that people might hear or read which would stimulate images of loneliness, but
Solitude has a more optimistic sense. Solitude: A Return to the Self by Anthony Storr states that solitude can be perceived as refreshing and calming, and can be regarded as respite. He even suggests that it can be very useful in coping with loneliness. He concludes that “solitude, unlike loneliness, is often referred to as a positive, pleasant experience that is conducive to replenishing one's energy and resources, and that affords one the time and space to reflect, be creative, or just enjoy rest (Storr 30)” Solitude appears to be seen when people ‘take time out’ to think. It is when people want to be by themselves for positive reasons, for example to feel closer to nature, or to ‘find themselves’. It has the sense of a positive, self-fulfilling concept, when individuals look at themselves and the world through rose-tinted spectacles. Solitude seems to point to total freedom of choice, and although it is on the same plane as