Lamming, George

Of Age and Innocence [Classic of West Indian literature]

London: Michael Joseph, 1958. First Edition, First Printing. Hardcover with Dust Jacket.

Blue cloth with white spine titles and a red band. 8 inches tall; 11,  412 [1] pages. No Flaws or Blemishes but minimal shelf handling; The Mylar protected dust jacket has the price and very light handling wear.

Lamming's third book, a classic of West Indian literature.

A profound exploration of post-colonial societal tensions within a fictional Caribbean island, San Cristobal. The novel delves into the struggles for political independence, highlighting the complexities of uniting diverse ethnic groups—African, Indian, Chinese, and others—against the colonial establishment. This unity is fragile, and mutual suspicions ultimately lead to division and failure, reflecting the challenges of building a cohesive identity in a post-colonial context.

Central themes include the interplay of race, ethnicity, and politics, as well as the deconstruction of "innocence" tied to the younger generation's aspirations and realities. The novel juxtaposes hope for radical change with the entrenched difficulties of overcoming colonial legacies, making it a cornerstone in Caribbean literary tradition. Its nuanced depiction of social dynamics and political ideals contributes to its recognition as one of the most insightful Caribbean novels​

Item #19731

Price: $45.00