The Lost Bookshop

As a motif, books abound in the story. They are a core part of the narrative, appearing in many forms, such as references to titles, quotes, manuscripts, authors, and magical books that appear out of nowhere. Many titles and references repeat, highlighting their importance to the characters and the themes. For instance, Opaline’s beloved first-edition copy of David Copperfield is of special importance because it funds her escape from Lyndon and brings her full circle when Josef returns with this exact book in his hands. The works of Emily Brontë are likewise vital. Emily Brontë’s hypothetical second manuscript becomes both Opaline’s and Henry’s holy grail, the thing that drives them and gives them purpose. The words of this manuscript repeat throughout the last third of the story. In addition, the text mentions many other titles and authors. Hemingway and Joyce make appearances, as do the historically significant book dealers Sylvia Beach and A. S. W. Rosenbach. The way that books are embedded within the story thematically embodies The Power of Books in people’s lives.