David Grunwald Livres

Julius Fučik ("Fuchik") (1903 - 1943) wrote this book under the shadow of the Nazi hangman's noose. The very form of the manuscript testifies to the invincible courage and resourcefulness of the author. It consists of penciled slips of paper smuggled one by one, with the aid of a sympathetic Czech guard, from the Gestapo prison at Pankrác, Prague. Fuchik, a man scornful of self-deception, knew he would not live to complete this precarious serial. But he was unyielding in his faith that its "happy ending," as he put it, would soon be written by millions of his own countrymen and by anti-fascists in other lands.

Exploring themes of confinement and transformation, this collection features Ernst Toller's complete "Poems of the Prisoners," reflecting his experiences and emotions during incarceration. Additionally, it includes his first play, "Die Wandlung" (Transformation), showcasing his evolution as a playwright. The works highlight Toller's poignant insights into human struggle and resilience in the face of adversity.

Set in the historic Blue Moon Tavern, which opened in 1934, this narrative explores its role as a refuge for University of Washington professors during the McCarthy era. Central to the story is Joe Butterworth, a once-prominent writer who became a symbol of despair after losing his career. The tavern thrived through the 1950s and 1960s, attracting notable figures like authors Tom Robbins and poets Theodore Roethke and Richard Hugo. It served as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting legendary visitors such as Dylan Thomas and Allen Ginsberg.

The book explores the evolution of American state and local governments from 1776, highlighting the impact of British colonial rule and the Revolutionary War. It details the challenges faced by the Continental Congress in establishing the Articles of Confederation in 1781. Key figures such as John Jay, Henry Know, and Rufus King are discussed for their contributions to the development of a new governmental framework, illustrating the complexities and ideas that shaped early American governance.

Focusing on the philosophy of experience, Richard Avenarius challenges traditional metaphysical views by proposing that there is no separation between inner and outer experiences. His doctrine of "empirical criticism" advocates for a unified understanding of experience, emphasizing the importance of pure experience in developing a natural concept of the world. In his significant work, Kritik der reinen Erfahrung, Avenarius explores these ideas in depth, aiming to reshape philosophical thought by rejecting established distinctions in favor of a more integrated approach to understanding reality.

Focusing on the Russian economic system post-revolution, this work provides a comprehensive analysis by Boris Brutzkus, enriched with a biography and extensive footnotes for context. It includes the complete text of "The Communist Manifesto 1848," marking its debut in English. The book presents a new perspective on Capitalism and Socialism, making it a vital resource for grasping modern political and economic challenges.

Set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution, this novella delves into the profound themes of war, love, hate, tragedy, and redemption. It provides a unique historical perspective on the revolutionary forces at play before and after 1917. The narrative is enriched by influences from Imaginism, a poetic movement that emerged in Moscow following the revolution, offering vivid imagery that complements the story's exploration of human emotions and societal upheaval.

Exploring the boundaries of contemporary thought, this collection features a variety of poems, haikus, and writings that aim to inspire compassion and broaden the reader's experience. It invites readers to embark on a journey of discovery, encouraging reflection on the potential for a more empathetic future through the lens of modern American poetry.

The book delves into the philosophical explorations of Gustav Landauer, a prominent German anarchist and pacifist. It highlights his role during the tumultuous period of the Bavarian Soviet Republic and his tragic demise amid political upheaval. Through "Skepticism and Mysticism," Landauer examines the interplay between mysticism and skepticism, emphasizing their contributions to human understanding. He probes into the depths of human consciousness, seeking to uncover the essence of sentience and the quest for genuine knowledge in a complex world.

Exploring the art of poetry, this collection features koans, haikus, and various poems that reflect the experiences of sentient beings navigating life's challenges. It delves into the essence of existence and the emotional landscapes of struggle, offering a profound meditation on the human condition.