The Colours of Our Memories

Michel Pastoureau's journal about colors covers half a century, exploring fashion, objects, practices, symbols, flags, sports, literature, museums, and art. It records the life of the author and his contemporaries, focusing on color as a focus for memory, delight, and dreaming.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 230 pages
Publication date: 14 January 2022
Publisher: Polity Press

In his captivating book, "The Colors of Our Childhood," Michel Pastoureau delves into the intricate tapestry of memories and the profound impact of color on our lives. Spanning half a century, this journal offers a captivating exploration of the recent history of colors, weaving together personal recollections, fashion, clothing, everyday objects, practices, emblems, flags, sports, literature, museums, and art. Through playful and poetic prose, Pastoureau invites readers to embark on a nostalgic journey, revisiting the vibrant hues of our past and unraveling the mysteries behind our associations with colors.

This text, brimming with nostalgia, captures the essence of both the author's experiences and the lives of his contemporaries. In a world teeming with color, Pastoureau emphasizes that color continues to hold a special place in our memories, providing joy, inspiration, and a gateway to dreams.

As we delve into this captivating book, we discover that colors have the power to evoke powerful emotions and memories. From the blue rabbit that captured our imagination as children to the red dress that symbolized our first love, these colors become intertwined with our personal narratives. Moreover, as we transition through different stages of life, our color associations evolve, reflecting the changing hues of our experiences and emotions.

Pastoureau's writing is infused with a sense of wonder and curiosity, as he explores the profound relationship between color and memory. He questions our perceptions of color, challenging us to reevaluate the way we see and interpret the world around us. Through his vivid descriptions and insightful observations, he invites us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of color and to recognize its role in shaping our lives.

"The Colors of Our Childhood" is not merely a book about colors; it is a testament to the power of memory and the enduring influence of our past. It serves as a reminder that even as we navigate the complexities of adulthood, the colors of our childhood continue to shape our perspectives and enrich our lives. As we turn the pages of this remarkable book, we are transported back to a time when the world was filled with endless possibilities and the colors of our dreams seemed boundless.

Weight: 238g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780745655727