A Literary Journey of Coffee

A Literary Journey of Coffee

Coffee, as a widely loved drink, not only has a rich aroma and unique taste, but also carries countless writers' thoughts on life, emotions and human nature. From ancient times to the present, coffee has played an important role in literary works and has become an indispensable element in many classic works. This article will lead readers into the world of coffee and literature.

1. Coffee and Thinking

"When the black liquid drips into the cup, my mind takes flight." This is how the famous philosopher Rousseau described the changes in his mood when drinking coffee. In fact, in the writings of many writers, coffee is often portrayed as a magical drink that can inspire thinking and creativity.

For example, in The Loss of the Diamond Necklace, written by the great French writer Honoré de Balzac, the protagonist Emile Bernard often tasted strong coffee in a cafe on Boulevard Saint-Germain, the oldest and most prominent place in Paris. This was not only where he wrote, but also where he exchanged ideas with friends and observed social customs.

In the American literary giant Hemingway's "Paris Holiday", the protagonist Jack Barnes often chose to spend time in Parisian cafes. Those leisurely and spacious spaces allow him to calm down and think about life, recall the past, and find inspiration and motivation for writing.

2. Coffee and emotions

In addition to stimulating thinking, coffee is often used to express various emotions. Whether it is joy or sadness, you can find descriptions related to coffee in literary works.

For example, in Waiting for Godot by French novelist Samuel Beckett, two men, Mir and Flasted, sit in a desolate and old bar waiting for a character named Godot. The entire play has only two acts and four scenes, and there is no substantial plot, but it is this lonely and anxious atmosphere that complements the black coffee in the cafe.

In the Diary of a Madman written by Chinese writer Lu Xun, after the protagonist Madman drank a cup of bitter coffee, he was aroused from deep within his heart to be angry about social injustice and helpless individual fate. This cup of bitter coffee became the pain and torture that could not be relieved in his heart.

3. Coffee and Humanity

In addition to thinking and emotions, coffee is often used to explore human nature. It can show the complex and diverse characteristics of a character or a social group.

For example, in 1984, written by British writer George Orwell, the protagonist Winston Smith often drinks black, strong, metallic-tasting "capsules" in a small shop - a kind of imitation similar to the real powdered beverage without taste and aroma. This capsule symbolizes the mediocrity and monotony in the totalitarian society, while coffee becomes a symbol of Winston's pursuit of freedom and individuality.

In the book Dance! Dance! Dance by Japanese writer Haruki Murakami, the protagonist likes to drink coffee at a place called "Shark Cafe". This is a unique place where all kinds of strange and bizarre characters gather. By describing the relationship between these characters and coffee, Haruki Murakami reveals their complex and contradictory inner world.

Conclusion

From thinking to emotions to human nature, coffee plays multiple roles in literary works. It is not only a tool for authors to express their emotions, think about problems and explore human nature, but also a window for readers to understand the works, experience the plot and feel the literary atmosphere. Whether drinking a cup of rich and mellow black coffee or savoring a classic literary work, enjoy the coffee literary journey that is intertwined with words, bringing inspiration and thinking in this beautiful and imaginative world.