23 MAY 1969, Page 20

Shorter notice

The Mind of a Mnemonist A. R. Luria (Cape 25s). A. R. Luria is Professor of Psychology at Moscow University. His brief, straightforward account concerns the case history of a man whom he calls S, and whose memory, to all in- tents and purposes, 'had no limits' (the i/alics are the Professor's). The processes ISy which, after lengthy and scrupulous observation, it appeared that S remembered—and not only re- membered, but was unable to forget—make a fascinating study: imagine, for instance, recall- ing the ringing of a bell in childhood as . a taste of salt water ... something white.'