Podcast Title: The History of Literature

Episode: 660 "Wakefield" by Nathaniel Hawthorne | My Last Book with Amelia Possanza

Host: Jacke Wilson

Release Date: December 12, 2024

Introduction to "Wakefield"

In Episode 660, host Jacke Wilson delves into Nathaniel Hawthorne's perplexing short story, "Wakefield." This episode intertwines literary analysis with personal anecdotes, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the narrative and its underlying themes. The episode is further enriched by an insightful conversation with Amelia Possanza, author of Lesbian Love Story, who draws parallels between archival research methods in Hawthorne's time and her own work.

Overview of Nathaniel Hawthorne and "Wakefield"

Jack Wilson begins by setting the stage for Hawthorne's life and the historical context in which "Wakefield" was written. He outlines Hawthorne's early struggles, his reclusive nature, and his eventual emergence into literary prominence with collections like Twice Told Tales.

"Hawthorne was a bit of a late bloomer in writing and in life. He was 38 when he published the Scarlet Letter and 46 when he met Herman Melville."
[02:30]

Wilson emphasizes that "Wakefield" represents an early yet significant work in Hawthorne's career, showcasing his adeptness at exploring complex psychological landscapes.

Detailed Analysis of "Wakefield"

Emma, the podcast's producer, narrates the short story, bringing Hawthorne's haunting tale to life with her expressive voice. The story revolves around Mr. Wakefield, a man who mysteriously abandons his wife for 20 years, only to return as if nothing had transpired.

John Wilson interprets Hawthorne's narrative technique, noting the story's blend of fiction and self-aware exposition:

"This isn't exactly a short story written in scenes and characters and dialogue. It's more like a fiction writer, Hawthorne, telling you what he would put into those scenes and characters and dialogue."
[05:15]

Wilson encourages listeners to pay attention to how Hawthorne invents the world surrounding Wakefield, highlighting the author's ability to delve into the protagonist's motivations and the moral implications of his actions.

Exploring Themes and Psychological Depth

The episode delves deep into the psychological aspects of Wakefield's character. Jack Wilson references critic Malcolm Cowley to unpack Hawthorne's use of allegory:

"The word 'heart' served Hawthorne as a term to describe the unconscious... a place he viewed as both sinful and sacred."
[10:45]

Wilson discusses how Wakefield's act of self-imposed exile serves as a metaphor for human isolation and the consequences of severing bonds with loved ones. He poses thought-provoking questions to the audience:

"What does it mean to step aside, to abandon, to live alone when you have a home with a family nearby?"
[12:00]

Amelia Possanza's Insights on Archival Research and Literary Exploration

Amelia Possanza joins the conversation to draw parallels between Hawthorne's meticulous world-building and her own archival research methods in uncovering lesbian histories in literature. She references Moby Dick as a model for comprehensive detail gathering, which inspired her approach in Lesbian Love Story.

"Herman Melville's Moby Dick had a compendium of whale-related items that inspired my search for lesbians in historical archives."
[48:55]

Their discussion highlights the importance of dedication and passion in literary research, emphasizing how both authors and researchers immerse themselves deeply into their subjects to uncover hidden narratives.

Emotional Resonance and Personal Reflections

Towards the end of the episode, Jack Wilson shares a personal anecdote about a friend's suicide, drawing a parallel to the haunting emotions evoked by Hawthorne's story. This segment serves as a trigger warning and underscores the profound emotional impact literature can have.

"A friend of mine committed suicide out of the blue... It's so haunting and horrible."
[49:20]

Wilson connects this personal reflection to Wakefield's internal struggles, emphasizing the timeless relevance of Hawthorne's exploration of human emotions and moral dilemmas.

Conclusion and Future Episodes

Jack Wilson wraps up the episode by summarizing the intricate layers of "Wakefield" and its reflection on human nature. He teases upcoming episodes, including discussions with contemporary authors and analyses of classic literature, ensuring listeners have something to look forward to.

"With Wakefield, truly a twice-told tale... we are left contemplating the profound moral questions Hawthorne poses."
[53:45]

Notable Quotes

• "Wakefield is spellbound. We must leave him for 10 years or so, to haunt around his house without once crossing the threshold..."
  [21:30] — Amelia Possanza

• "Individuals are so nicely adjusted to a system, and systems to one another into a whole, that by stepping aside for a moment, a man exposes himself to a fearful risk of losing his place forever."
  [38:00] — Jack Wilson

• "By accepting that this guy loved whales and was fascinated by them, and I'm going to share that fascination, it really is a much more illuminating experience."
  [51:42] — Zibby Owens

Final Thoughts

Episode 660 of The History of Literature masterfully navigates Nathaniel Hawthorne's "Wakefield," offering listeners an in-depth analysis enriched by personal narratives and expert insights. Jacke Wilson's engaging presentation, coupled with Amelia Possanza's archival expertise, provides a multifaceted exploration of literary history and its enduring impact on our understanding of human nature.

Listeners are encouraged to visit historyofliterature.com and facebook.com/historyofliterature for more resources and to support the show via patreon.com/literature or historyofliterature.com/donate.

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