The rejection of the linear narrative of traditional history enabled Baker to explore the relationships between history and memory by incorporating elements of the Midrash (part of the Jewish oral tradition), Talmud and a variety of forms and styles to acknowledge the multitude of perspectives that make up the memories of the past. In addition, Baker demonstrates the fragility of memory through Genia - his mother’s - account. The Polish family which sheltered Genia during the war ‘do not remember the blackness’, however, Genia remembers a ‘little girl hiding in a dark cellar’. The repetition of the image of darkness indicates the void of memory and secrecy which is the gap of the unknown. The family’s memory of Genia looking out of the window differs from Genia’s perception, and it also reflects her mindset of the traumatic past, this contrast furthers the understanding of memory being fragmented and the psychological effect on victims who over time have forgotten these
The rejection of the linear narrative of traditional history enabled Baker to explore the relationships between history and memory by incorporating elements of the Midrash (part of the Jewish oral tradition), Talmud and a variety of forms and styles to acknowledge the multitude of perspectives that make up the memories of the past. In addition, Baker demonstrates the fragility of memory through Genia - his mother’s - account. The Polish family which sheltered Genia during the war ‘do not remember the blackness’, however, Genia remembers a ‘little girl hiding in a dark cellar’. The repetition of the image of darkness indicates the void of memory and secrecy which is the gap of the unknown. The family’s memory of Genia looking out of the window differs from Genia’s perception, and it also reflects her mindset of the traumatic past, this contrast furthers the understanding of memory being fragmented and the psychological effect on victims who over time have forgotten these