Osmospheric Images. Reveries, Smells, and Memories in Gaston Bachelard
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.60923/issn.2724-2463/21540Keywords:
Bachelard, Smell, Images, Atmospheres, MemoryAbstract
In this paper I explore the connections between reveries and atmospheres by considering three images related to smell and memories that are interspersed in Gaston Bachelard’s works. I define them osmospheric images, indicating the causes and the effects of a peculiar disposition of day dreaming in tune with the irradiances that provide spaces and reminiscences with their flavor. My idea is that osmospheric images are the peculiar offsprings of reveries when imagination and memory are intertwined. Firstly, the odor of water mint will help unravel reveries and atmospheres. Secondly, through the smell of raisins, the osmospheric perceptual disposition, as well as the workings of imagination and memory, will be scrutinized. Finally, the fragrance of warm bread will allow to address memory and happiness, the bonheur of images that Bachelard achieves by daydreaming about his childhood and native home.
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