Charles Lamb's essays, penned for London Magazine during the early 1820s, stand as pinnacles of his literary prowess and remain cherished contributions to English literature. Although Lamb had been writing essays since 1802, it was his work under the pseudonym "Elia" that solidified his legacy. These essays, infused with whimsical nostalgia and intellectual depth, reflect Lamb's deep engagement with the past and his keen insight into human nature.

Early Beginnings and Literary Development

Lamb began crafting familiar essays in 1802, following the publication of "The Londoner" in the Morning Post. His friend, Thomas Manning, praised the piece, suggesting that a volume of similar essays would surely succeed. Despite the early encouragement, Lamb took many years to fully embrace this form, dabbling instead in various literary pursuits, including criticism, children's books, and a farce. By 1818, his collected works were published, showcasing his diverse talents.

Contribution to London Magazine

In 1820, John Scott, editor of the London Magazine, invited Lamb to contribute to the publication. "Recollections of the South Sea House," published under the pseudonym "Elia," marked the beginning of a fruitful period wherein Lamb wrote numerous essays for the magazine. Although the majority of these essays were produced between 1820 and 1823, "Popular Fallacies" was not published until 1826 in the New Monthly Magazine.

Antiquity and Literary Allusions

The introduction to the Last Essays of Elia, ostensibly penned by "a Friend of the Late Elia," critiques the essays for their "antique models and phrases." This sentiment echoes the criticism from Lamb's sister, Mary, who objected to his use of archaic words. Lamb, however, embraced the past, famously declaring, "Damn the ages! I will write for antiquity!" His essays are replete with literary allusions and borrowings from Elizabethan authors, underscoring his love of literary history.

Intertwining Life and Literature

Lamb's essays reveal his connections with leading literary figures of the time, such as Wordsworth, Coleridge, and Keats. Despite his acquaintance with contemporary authors, his interests largely leaned toward older works. His 1808 anthology, Specimens of English Dramatic Poets, highlighted Elizabethan playwrights and foreshadowed the influences manifest in his Elia essays. Lamb's extensive reading, evident in his diverse references, enriched his writings with depth and historical resonance.

Nostalgia and Romantic Sensibilities

Lamb's affinity for the past is evident in the very titles of his essays, such as "Old China" and "The Old Benchers of the Inner Temple." He frequently contrasts the charm and depth of history with the perceived shortcomings of the present. Essays like "The Old and the New Schoolmaster" and "Dream Children: A Reverie" highlight this theme, lamenting the loss of past virtues and simplicity. Lamb's work often reflects a Romantic longing for the past and an introspective exploration of personal experience.

Personal Experience and Fictionalization

The autobiographical nature of Lamb's essays is notable, as he blurs the line between fact and fiction. The persona of Elia allows Lamb to explore his own life under the guise of another, thus granting him both freedom and distance. He cleverly disguises real people through name changes, and alters dates, blending truth with fiction to create a layered narrative. Despite these alterations, the core truths of his experiences, particularly his childhood, remain intact.

Humor and Wit in Lamb's Essays

Lamb's humor shines in essays such as "A Dissertation upon Roast Pig," where he uses exaggeration and absurdity to comic effect. The tale of Bo-bo accidentally discovering roast pig by burning down his family hut exemplifies Lamb’s ability to turn life’s mishaps into humorous anecdotes. Here, he humorously critiques modernity while weaving in personal anecdotes, showing his skill at...