Dream-Child: A Life of Charles Lamb

Charles Lamb was a Romantic essayist who found inspiration in London's markets, theaters, prostitutes, and bookshops. He was a star wit and counted among his admirers Mary Shelley, William Wordsworth, and Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Eric G. Wilson's biography explores how Lambs humor helped him cope with a life-defining tragedy, and how Mary's presence in his darkly comical essays reverberates in today's experimental literature.

Format: Hardback
Length: 544 pages
Publication date: 07 January 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

Charles Lamb, a renowned Romantic essayist, lived a fascinating life filled with diverse experiences. Born in 1775 in London, he was drawn to the city's vibrant energy, exploring its markets, theaters, prostitutes, and bookshops. Lamb's literary prowess shone brightly, and he was a prominent figure in London's literary scene, known for his sharp wit and captivating conversations.

Among his admirers were renowned figures such as Mary Shelley, William Wordsworth, and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who recognized the unique blend of irony, whimsy, and melancholy in Lamb's writing. His friends cherished his conversational skills, which set him apart from other writers.

In his meticulously researched biography, Eric G. Wilson delves into the life of Charles Lamb, shedding light on his enduring charm. Wilson explores how Lamb's humor served as a coping mechanism after a tragic event that shaped his life. His sister Mary, driven by madness, murdered their mother, and Lamb took on the responsibility of caring for her. Despite the darkness that enveloped him, Lamb's humor remained intact, and he even collaborated with Mary on children's books.

Through his exploration of Mary's presence in Charles Lamb's darkly comical essays, Wilson demonstrates how Lamb's legacy continues to resonate in contemporary experimental literature. Lamb's ability to blend humor with profound emotions and his unique perspective on life continue to inspire writers and readers alike.

Charles Lamb's life was a testament to the power of literature to transcend adversity and leave a lasting impact on the world. His humor, wit, and profound insights into the human condition continue to captivate audiences, reminding us of the enduring beauty of human resilience and creativity.

Weight: 934g
Dimension: 168 x 242 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300230802