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This paper deals with transitions in human identity. More specifically, it deals with a transition in the life of D. H. Lawrence, the writer. Certain aspects of Lawrence's life and writing, at a time when he was moving into a new and important phase, will be discussed. It was the time of his hesitant entry into the role of lover of women, compelling writer, and prophet.
Before moving into Lawrence's life, however, it is worthwhile to discuss, briefly, certain aspects of identity theory, as well as the concept “transition.”
A number of psychoanalytic theorists have written on identity. However, Erik Erikson (1950, 1959, 1968) dealt with it most intensively and is generally regarded as its preeminent theorist.
At any rate we find Erikson's views valuable - our definition of identity is derived from his thinking.
The concept of human identity has two important and interlocking facets. First, it refers to the specific complex of goals and means which characterize each person. Second, it describes an individual's feeling of uniqueness. “I am myself and different from every other human being.”