Egoists, A Book of Supermen: Stendhal, Baudelaire, Flaubert, Anatole France, Huysmans, Barrès, Nietzsche, Blake, Ibsen, Stirner, and Ernest Hello
James Huneker
May 2022 · DigiCat
Ebook
234
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About this ebook
In "Egoists: A Book of Supermen," James Huneker crafts a compelling exploration of artistic genius through a collection of biographical sketches of influential figures such as Oscar Wilde and Friedrich Nietzsche. With a distinctive prose style that melds wit and literary flair, Huneker delves into the psychological complexities and philosophical underpinnings of his subjects, reflecting the early 20th-century fascination with individualism and exceptionalism. This work is not merely a biography; it is a meditative inquiry into the nature of creativity, the artist's tumultuous relationship with society, and the oft-idealized figure of the 'superman.' James Huneker was a prominent American music and literary critic, whose own life was steeped in the artistic movements of his time. His background in music and exposure to European literature and philosophy profoundly influenced his approach to writing. Huneker's deep engagement with modernist thought provides him the lens through which he examines the tumultuous lives of his chosen figures, all of whom wrestled with the weight of their own extraordinary talents and the societal expectations placed upon them. "Egoists" is an essential read for anyone interested in the profile of the avant-garde artist and the duality of genius and madness. Huneker's insightful analysis not only illuminates the lives of these 'supermen' but also invites readers to reflect on their own aspirations toward greatness. This book is a profound examination that resonates with anyone seeking to understand the costs and joys of artistic ambition.
About the author
James Huneker, a distinguished figure in the cultural life of America at the turn of the 20th century, was known for his incisive criticism and multifaceted literary contributions. Born on January 31, 1857, in Philadelphia, he became a prominent critic, essayist, and author, imbuing his literary work with a deep understanding of European culture and aesthetics. Huneker's career began as a pianist, after which he transitioned into journalism and criticism, bringing with him a passion for music and art that would heavily influence his writings. In his notable work, 'Egoists, A Book of Supermen' (1909), Huneker profiles several iconic figures of the time, exploring the individualism and uniqueness of characters such as Nietzsche, Stirner, and Ibsen. His analyses do not merely skim the surface but dive into the philosophical undercurrents of his subjects. Huneker's writing style, characterized by his keen observations and erudite commentary, was both accessible to the lay reader and valued by the scholarly community. He was a conduit for bringing complex European intellectual ideas into the American discourse. His other works include 'Iconoclasts: A Book of Dramatists' and 'Visionaries', which similarly reflect his literary prowess and critical acumen. James Huneker's contributions to the literary and critical landscape remained influential, and he continued to inspire readers and writers long after his passing in 1921.
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