2.5.4.2 Involuntary memory—theory

Because there are so many parts to this, I'm going to list them all here, then give textual evidence in linked pages.

(i) There's a strict distinction between voluntary memory and involuntary memory.
• you mustn’t try to remember: effort is not just useless but counterproductive
• there is a lot of chance in all this
• memory is like a vast archive full of places where you might not look
• involuntary memory breaks habit

(ii) Involuntary memory restores a temporal self (aka subself).
• the past is not dead, despite appearances
• involuntary memory restores a past self, combining present sensation and past sensation
• it generates an oscillation between past and present
• involuntary memory restores the total disposition of a prior self, incl. past futures
• each subself is a world unto itself
• all subselves are available simultaneously, in a warehouse of memories

(iii) This subself is still a part of you.
• involuntary memory is not memory but reliving
• involuntary memory restores the sensation itself, not a copy

(iv) A rejected explanation for the happiness it causes: involuntary memory is not nostalgia.
• the memory is insignificant
• the memory can even be painful
• hence no desire to return to the site: the pleasure is cosa mentale, not physical.
• the trigger is also insignificant

(v) A first real explanation for the happiness it causes: involuntary memory is memory minus will.
• involuntary memory is mémoire désintéressée
• that is, involuntary memory removes will from the picture
• it thus differs from ordinary experience, where our future goals prevent appreciation of the present
• ordinarily, our goal-drivenness prevents us from seeing what’s there

(vi) A second real explanation for the happiness it causes: involuntary memory transfigures reality by making it available to imagination.

(vii) A third real explanation for the happiness it causes: involuntary memory indicates the presence of a true self.
• involuntary memory gives happiness because it reveals the existence of a consistent self.
• it may look like the essence of things, but it’s really the essence of you.
• involuntary memory thus yields truth—unlike conversation—but the truth about you.
• involuntary memory gives feeling of immortality because true self is extratemporal, feeds on the eternal

(viii) As a result, writing follows.
• writing is based on this
• involuntary memory inspires “C” to write

Prev Home Next