Deep down I have this atavistic feeling that really I should be in the country

Deep down I have this atavistic feeling that really I should be in the country

Penelope Lively, a renowned British author known for her insightful and evocative writing, often explores themes of memory, identity, and the connection between individuals and their surroundings. In many of her works, the natural world plays a significant role, serving as a backdrop against which her characters navigate their lives and relationships. Lively's writing often reflects a deep appreciation for the countryside and a sense of longing for a simpler, more rural way of life.

The quote, "Deep down I have this atavistic feeling that really I should be in the country," encapsulates a sentiment that is prevalent in much of Lively's work. This feeling of longing for the countryside, for a return to a more primal and elemental way of living, speaks to a deeper yearning for connection to the land and a desire to escape the complexities and pressures of modern life.

In Lively's novels, characters often find solace and meaning in the natural world. Whether it is the rolling hills of the English countryside, the rugged coastline of Cornwall, or the lush gardens of a country estate, the landscape serves as a refuge, a place of renewal and reflection. Lively's characters are often drawn to the peace and tranquility of the countryside, seeking solace in its beauty and simplicity.

Atavistic feelings, as the quote suggests, are deeply rooted in our primal instincts and ancestral memories. Lively's characters often grapple with a sense of displacement, feeling disconnected from their surroundings and yearning for a deeper connection to the land. This longing for the countryside reflects a desire for a return to a more authentic way of living, one that is in harmony with nature and rooted in tradition.