Christopher Benfey Livres

The book explores the cultural exchange between the United States and Japan during the Gilded Age, highlighting the U.S.'s search for philosophical grounding in Japan's traditional culture as it underwent rapid modernization. Over twenty-five years, Japan transformed from a feudal society into a global power, influencing American perspectives. This period of intense interaction fostered notable figures and mutual fascination, as both nations navigated their identities amidst significant historical changes.

The book intertwines objects and poetry, creating a unique exploration of memory and its haunting qualities. It evokes deep emotions and invites readers to reflect on their own experiences. Celebrated for its originality, it resonates with those seeking a profound and evocative literary journey.

Traces Kipling's deep involvement with America over one crucial decade, from 1889 to 1899, when he lived for four years in Brattleboro, Vermont, and sought deliberately to turn himself into a specifically American writer. It was his most prodigious and creative period, as well as his happiest, during which he wrote The Jungle Book and Captains Courageous

Set against a pivotal moment in American history, the narrative brings together prominent writers, poets, and artists, highlighting their interactions and influences. It serves as a rich companion piece for fans of the film "A Quiet Passion," which features Cynthia Nixon as the iconic poet Emily Dickinson, exploring themes of creativity, identity, and the artistic spirit.

Focusing on America's literary masters, this new installment in the Writers on Writing series offers fresh insights from a renowned critic and essayist. The book delves into the works and influences of prominent authors, exploring their unique contributions to literature. Through thoughtful analysis, it illuminates the complexities of their writing processes and the broader cultural contexts in which they created their art.

Eine faszinierende Familiengeschichte, die über Kontinente hinweg, vom kolonialen Amerika über das Europa der zwanziger und dreißiger Jahre und in die USA von den 1950ern bis herauf in die Gegenwart reicht, das ist Benfeys Erinnerungsbuch. Sein Vater Otto Theodor stammte aus der Verlegerdynastie Ullstein, seine Mutter aus einer amerikanischen Maurer- und Tabakpflanzerfamilie; sein Großonkel, der Bauhaus-Künstler Josef Albers, unterrichtete am Black Mountain College Größen der Moderne wie Robert Rauschenberg. Benfey beherrscht die Kunst, Orte und Personen plastisch werden zu lassen. Der rote Faden, der sie verbindet, bleibt aber immer die Geschichte der Familie, die uns auf die Spuren der titelgebenden Materialien führt: Sand, Stein und Ton.