MEMORY, NOSTALGIA, AND EMOTIONAL DUALITY ACROSS GENRES IN LAMB’S WORKS

Abstract

This paper provides a holistic approach to examining continuity in themes in the literature written by Charles Lamb. The analysis will focus on themes such as memory, nostalgia, family love, dual emotions, childhood consciousness, and urban imagination. By using a genre-crossing approach that covers essays, poems, and works of children's literature created by Charles Lamb, this paper proves that Charles Lamb is able to establish his literary tradition based on emotional authenticity and imagination. Memory becomes the instrument for creating both personal and collective emotions out of the writer’s life experience. Depiction of domesticity goes against stereotypical perceptions of families since in Lamb’s literary tradition, family ties imply a sense of companionship and love. Another characteristic feature of Charles Lamb’s literary style includes his unique way of combining tragedy and comedy that creates a tragicomic mood in his works. Finally, connection to childhood reveals not only educational ideas of the author but also his search for solace in childhood memory. Overall, Charles Lamb’s deviation from traditional nature-inspired Romanticism proves the unity of themes in his works.