Loss of memory, loss of self : a thematic and technical study of austin clarke's mnemosyne lay in dust

Abstract EN

This paper provides a thematic and technical treatment of Austin Clarke's Mnemosyne Lay in Dust, a long autobiographical work that tells the story of Maurice Devane, the protagonist who stands for the poet himself.

The eighteen sections of the poem deal with Maurice's loss of memory and the suffering he undergoes as an insane person inside a mental asylum till he gradually progresses toward recovery.

The paper's theoretical framework sheds light on the definition of memory according to psychology, clarifying its importance, types, phases, and processes, as well as the concept of memory loss as handled by psychologists and physicians.

In addition, a brief introduction about Austin Clarke, the variety of his literary production, and his development as a writer is given.

Then, the researcher presents a detailed discussion of Mnemosyne Lay in Dust, focusing on the themes and techniques Clarke employs in the poem.

The paper closes with a conclusion highlighting the main points researched by the researcher