The History of Literature
660 "Wakefield" by Nathaniel Hawthorne | My Last Book with Amelia Possanza
Dec 12, 2024
Amelia Possanza, author of "Lesbian Love Story: A Memoir in Archives," shares her poignant choice for the last book she'll read. The discussion dives into Nathaniel Hawthorne's "Wakefield," a tale of a man who mysteriously abandons his wife yet lives just around the corner for twenty years. Topics include Hawthorne's unique narrative style, the psychological complexities of isolation and marital fidelity, and the emotional toll of absence on relationships. Possanza also reflects on literary legacy and personal loss.
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Quick takeaways
- Nathaniel Hawthorne's 'Wakefield' explores the profound consequences of self-imposed isolation, revealing the emotional void left in relationships over time.
- The story illustrates how Wakefield's choice to abandon his family for two decades reflects themes of guilt, identity, and the complexities of human connection.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Wakefield's Character
Wakefield, the central character in Nathaniel Hawthorne's short story, embodies a complex mix of ordinary human failings and deeper existential issues. He chooses to abandon his wife under the pretense of a short trip, yet he ends up living just a street away for twenty years, observing her life from a distance. His actions reveal a quiet selfishness and an underlying morbid vanity as he contemplates the impact of his absence on his wife and family. This profound disconnect between Wakefield's internal thoughts and his external reality serves to highlight the intricate nature of human relationships and the unseen consequences of one's choices.
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