EXPLORING MEMORY, LOVE, AND LANGUAGE: ENHANCING ESL STUDENTS’ LEXICAL RESOURCES THROUGH AS TIME GOES BY BY MICHAEL WALSH

Abstract

This article examines the representation of memory, love, and the passage of time in As Time Goes By by Michael Walsh and analyzes its educational value for ESL students. The study focuses on the enduring relationship between Rick Blaine and Ilsa Lund as a symbol of longing, sacrifice, and human resilience against the backdrop of World War II. In addition, the article explores how the novel contributes to vocabulary development, reading comprehension, communication skills, and critical thinking among English as a Second Language learners. Through reflective and literary analysis, the article demonstrates that Walsh’s novel functions not only as a romantic and historical narrative but also as an effective educational resource for language learning. The findings suggest that literature-based instruction can enhance lexical resources and encourage emotional and moral reflection in ESL classrooms.