E.V. Lucas states that ''(Charles)Lamb found the essay a comparatively frigid thing: he left it warm and flexible and companionable .Explain the statement.

E.V. Lucas's statement refers to the transformation that Charles Lamb brought to the essay as a literary form. Here's a step-by-step explanation:

1. "Lamb found the essay a comparatively frigid thing": This part of the statement suggests that when Lamb first encountered the essay form, he found it to be somewhat cold and rigid. This could mean that the essays he read before were formal, impersonal, and strictly adhering to a particular structure or style.

2. "He left it warm and flexible": This indicates that Lamb transformed the essay form into something more approachable and adaptable. His essays were known for their warmth, meaning they were more personal, intimate, and engaging. The term "flexible" suggests that Lamb did not strictly adhere to the conventional essay structure. Instead, he adapted it to suit his own style and the subject matter he was dealing with.

3. "And companionable": This suggests that Lamb's essays were like a friend to the reader. They were engaging, relatable, and enjoyable to read. Lamb's essays often included personal anecdotes, reflections, and observations, which made the reader feel as if they were having a conversation with Lamb himself.

In summary, E.V. Lucas's statement is praising Charles Lamb for transforming the essay from a rigid, formal form into a warm, flexible, and engaging one.