Minds that have been unhinged from their old faith and love, have perhaps sought this Lethean influence of exile, in which the past becomes dreamy because its symbols have all vanished, and the present too is dreamy because it is linked with no memories.
In George Eliot's "Silas Marner," the narrative explores the effects of losing faith and love, leading individuals to seek refuge in a forgetful state of exile. This emotional detachment causes a blurring of the past, making it feel unreal as the symbols that once defined it fade away. The characters find solace in this dreamy existence, where both their memories and current experiences lack significance.
This state of exile reflects a profound disconnection from one's history and identity. As individuals navigate this emotional landscape, they grapple with the emptiness that comes from severing ties with their former selves. The longing for a past where emotions had depth contrasts starkly with the present, which feels insubstantial and devoid of connection.
