In 1945, Maurice Merleau-Ponty published 'Phenomenology of Perception,' a pivotal work that argued perception is an embodied and situated experience. His philosophy challenged the Cartesian dualism of mind and body, emphasizing the interconnectedness of perception and existence. Merleau-Ponty's ideas have had a lasting impact on philosophy, psychology, and cognitive science, influencing contemporary debates on consciousness and perception.

Maurice Merleau-Ponty's publication of 'Phenomenology of Perception' influenced the visceral, sensory-focused imagery of post-war phenomenological poetry. Poets such as Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath embraced this approach, emphasizing the physical body's interaction with the world and the complexities of human perception.