In "A Primer for Forgetting," celebrated author Lewis Hyde embarks on an intellectual and deeply personal journey that reexamines the value of forgetfulness in a world obsessed with the preservation of memory. Through a mosaic of insights gleaned from mythology, literature, philosophy, and personal anecdotes, Hyde constructs a compelling case for the liberating power of letting go. This book challenges the reader to reconsider the role that forgetting plays in healing, growth, and the creation of new beginnings. Hyde expertly navigates through history and the human psyche, proposing that forgetfulness is not a flaw, but a gift that offers us a path to peace and renewal. Hyde's work is a masterful synthesis that weaves together diverse narratives—from the ancient tales of Hesiod to the modern reflections of Jorge Luis Borges and the poignant poetry of Elizabeth Bishop. "A Primer for Forgetting" is not just a scholarly experiment; it is a guide to embracing the creative and political force of forgetfulness. By delving into both the collective memories of societies and the intimate recollections of individual lives, including his own, Hyde explores the boundaries of memory and the potential for forgetfulness to serve as a balm for the soul. This book is an invitation to view forgetfulness as an ally rather than an enemy, making it a groundbreaking contribution to the discourse on memory, identity, and the mechanisms of the human mind.