Nicholas Taylor-Collins Livres

Judge for Yourself guides interested and advanced-level readers through the challenge of judging the quality of hyper-contemporary literature. Whether reading the latest bestseller or the book that everyone is recommending, Judge for Yourself guides you through the challenge of the text. Reading the longlist of the 2019 International Dylan Thomas Prize through five chapters, Judge for Yourself introduces readers to current critical debates that inform engagement and the reading experience of hyper-contemporary writing. Topics covered include feminism, postcolonialism, critical race theory, queer theory, class, and book reviews. Each chapter includes introductory questions for the reader, and Judge for Yourself is accompanied by an exploration of book prize culture and the challenge posed by hyper-contemporary literature. Judge for Yourself puts judging firmly in the hands of the reader, and not the academic or professional reviewers.

Musicians are always quick to adopt and explore new technologies. The fast-paced changes wrought by electrification, from the microphone via the analogue synthesiser to the laptop computer, have led to a wide diversity of new musical styles and techniques. Electronic music has grown to a broad field of investigation, taking in historical movements such as musique concrète and elektronische musik, and contemporary trends such as electronic dance music and electronica. A fascinating array of composers and inventors have contributed to a diverse set of technologies, practices and music. This book brings together some novel threads through this scene, from the viewpoint of researchers at the forefront of the sonic explorations empowered by electronic technology. The chapters provide accessible and insightful overviews of core topic areas and uncover some hitherto less publicised corners of worldwide movements. Recent areas of intense activity such as audiovisuals, live electronic music, interactivity and network music are actively promoted.

Focusing on empowering readers, this guide navigates the complexities of evaluating hyper-contemporary literature. It encourages both interested and advanced readers to take control of their own judgments, shifting the authority away from academic and professional critics. Through its insights, it aims to enhance the reader's confidence and ability in assessing modern literary works.

The book delves into the intertextual connections between early modern English literature and modern Irish literature, focusing on the concept of 'dismemorial' relationships. It examines how themes of ghosts, bodies, and land serve as literary links, revealing how contemporary Irish writers engage with Shakespeare's England. Through this exploration, it highlights the enduring influence of Shakespeare on the cultural and literary landscape of Ireland.