In this deeply personal and unconventional memoir, Sophie Ratcliffe weaves together elements of autobiography, literary criticism, and cultural analysis to explore love, loss, and the passage of time. Blending personal experiences with literary and historical references, she examines how the objects, places, and stories we accumulate shape our identities and relationships. Central to the book is Ratcliffe’s own experience of losing her father at a young age and how that grief has permeated her life. She also reflects on her experiences as a mother, partner, and academic, questioning how nostalgia, memory, and literature shape our understanding of love. The book is structured as a journey—both literal and metaphorical—on a train from London to Liverpool, a ride that serves as a backdrop for her reflections. Reviews "Ratcliffe’s writing is elegant, poetic, and thought-provoking. She seamlessly moves between literature, philosophy, and personal history, creating a book that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally resonant." "A poignant meditation on grief, nostalgia, and the way our past shapes our present. Ratcliffe’s blend of memoir and literary analysis is deeply moving and provides a fresh perspective on love and loss." "This is not just a memoir—it is an exploration of how stories, both fictional and personal, define our sense of self. Readers who appreciate intelligent, lyrical writing will find themselves deeply engaged in Ratcliffe’s journey."
Book Title: The Lost Properties of Love - Sophie RatcliffeBook Genre: Memoir, Nonfiction, Literature, Biography, LoveISBN: 9780008225940Number of Pages: 304Publishing Date: February 6, 2020Cover Type: Paperback