Integrating Oldenburg’s concept of place and Soja’s concept of space: a spatial enquiry of denial, repression, and closure in Ishiguro’s “The Remains of the Day”

Abstract Spatial enquiry in literature has opened new doors for understanding the relationship between physical and mental space. This paper analyses how an individual’s sense of space can influence their themselves others. study identifies similarities Ray Oldenburg’s concept place Edward Soja’s Moreover, it integrates both theories by locating triad (home, workplace, third place) as a part real (firstspace). The lack discernibility home workspace exerts itself protagonist Stevens’ obsession with his profession. also examines disorientation trifold conception causes Stevens to be emotionally spatially repressed character. elaborates on role thirdspace. It Steven’s six-day journey into countryside introspective past. aims find social interactions have helped unlearn relearn hegemonically influenced ideologies duty dignity. Further, helps resolve denial repression, properly channelling flow spatial energy. thirdspace transformative that closure accept regretful