SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY Meaning and
Definition
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Sentimental journey refers to a nostalgic or emotional voyage, often undertaken by an individual to revisit places or events from their past with a sense of sentimentality. The term "sentimental" conveys warm and tender feelings associated with personal memories, while "journey" signifies a physical or metaphorical passage or expedition.
A sentimental journey typically involves a deliberate effort to experience and rekindle sentimental emotions by revisiting significant locations, events, or people from the past. It allows individuals to relive cherished memories, reminisce about the past, and reconnect with emotions that hold deep personal meaning. Whether undertaken through physical travel or imaginative reflection, this journey often invokes a bittersweet mix of joy, longing, nostalgia, and perhaps even melancholy.
The purpose of a sentimental journey can vary, as it can be prompted by a desire to relive joyous moments, seek closure, reestablish old connections, or simply indulge in a sentimental reflection. It may also serve as a way to gain a renewed perspective on life, appreciate personal growth, or find solace in revisiting a happier time. While sentimental journeys can be intensely personal, they can also be shared with others, allowing for the creation of shared, sentimental experiences.
In literature and art, the concept of a sentimental journey has been popularized by works such as Laurence Sterne's novel "A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy," which focuses on the protagonist's emotional and contemplative exploration of various locations. Overall, a sentimental journey encapsulates the introspective and emotive nature of revisiting the past, making it an integral concept in understanding human emotions and the power of memory.
Etymology of SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY
The term "sentimental journey" originated from the English language and its etymology can be traced back to the 18th century. It was first used by the Irish author and playwright Laurence Sterne in his novel "A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy", published in 1768.
The word "sentimental" comes from the Latin word "sentimentum", which means "feeling" or "opinion". Sterne used the term to describe a journey taken by the novel's main character, Mr. Yorick, who embarks on a trip through France and Italy. The journey is not primarily focused on sightseeing or adventure but rather on experiencing emotions and evoking sentimental or nostalgic feelings.
Over time, the phrase "sentimental journey" has come to represent any nostalgic or emotional journey, often taken to revisit places of personal or sentimental significance.
