Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs in Liam O'Flaherty's Short Story, "His First Flight"

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the needs of a young seagull in the short story and to explore how the young seagull fulfills those needs, using Abraham Harold Maslow’s Hierarchy theory. This study used a qualitative research method. The young seagull in the short story “His First Flight” takes his first flight represents his ascent through the hierarchical levels. The seagull was first relied on his parents for sustenance, but he eventually learned to obtain food on his own. He encounters challenges that are similar to the needs for safety that shows how his approach to risk management and security has developed. His associations with other birds illustrate his desire for affection and a sense of belonging, as well as the formation of ties. The seagull develops his flying ability, attracting praise and satisfying his desire for respect. The climax of the story arises when he takes a hazardous flight, a symbol of self-actualization and reaching one's full potential. The flight mirrors his way to self-realization by demonstrating not just physical achievement but also mental and emotional growth. The narrative's symbolic structure underlines the main character's progression from reliance to autonomy, as well as from uncertainty to self-assurance, which lines up with Maslow's hierarchy phases. "His First Flight" expertly conveys the core concepts of Maslow's theory on human desires and goals via challenges, connections, and successes, offering readers with a comprehensive exploration of self-actualization and satisfaction.