In the given statement, Jesmyn Ward expresses a nostalgic connection to her childhood during the 1980s through her repeated viewing of several classic films from that era. These movies include "The Neverending Story," "Labyrinth," and "Legend," among others like "Willow" and "The Goonies." By revisiting these films, Ward is able to relive fond memories and capture the essence of a time when she was more carefree.
On a deeper level, this quote reflects not just nostalgia but also a broader human tendency to seek comfort in the past. Films from one’s youth often hold significant emotional weight as they are linked with personal experiences and formative years. Ward's choice of these specific movies suggests that they likely played an important role during her upbringing, perhaps providing escapism or inspiration at critical moments. By revisiting them now, she taps into a reservoir of emotions tied to those films and the era in which they were released, allowing for a reconnection with her younger self.
Jesmyn Ward is an acclaimed American author known for her powerful narratives that often explore themes of race, family, and survival. Her works include novels such as "Salvage the Bones" and "Sing, Unheard," both of which have garnered critical acclaim and literary awards. Through her writing, she offers poignant insights into contemporary American life, particularly within African-American communities in the southern United States.
