American Paraliterature and Other Theories to Hijack Communication

American Paraliterature explores the generative encounters of post-1968 French theory with the postwar American avant-garde, focusing on the 1975 Schizo-Culture conference and the schizo-connection between American avant-garde artists and French theory.

Format: Hardback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2021
Publisher: Anthem Press

American Paraliterature delves into the intricate interplay between post-1968 French theory and the postwar American avant-garde. The book commences with an account of the 1975 Schizo-Culture conference, meticulously orchestrated by Semiotext(e) editor Sylvère Lotringer at Columbia University. This conference served as a groundbreaking endeavor to establish a direct bridge between the American avant-garde and French theory. The event witnessed a remarkable collaboration between John Cage and Deleuze, while Foucault introduced the visionary writer William S. Burroughs to the audience. This schizo-connection unveils a unique lens through which to interpret the experimental approaches of the American avant-garde, encompassing figures such as Burroughs, Cage, and Kathy Acker. Their writing emerges as a powerful counterprogram to the assertive power articulated by Foucault and Deleuze in the 1970s, adding depth and complexity to the literary landscape.

American Paraliterature explores the profound encounters between post-1968 French theory and the postwar American avant-garde.

The book initiates its journey with an account of the 1975 Schizo-Culture conference, meticulously organized by Semiotext(e) editor Sylvère Lotringer at Columbia University.

This conference aimed to establish a direct connection between the American avant-garde and French theory, fostering a dialogue of ideas.

At the event, John Cage shared the stage with Deleuze, while Foucault introduced the visionary writer William S. Burroughs to the audience.

This schizo-connection presents a unique perspective through which to examine the experimental methods of the American avant-garde, including Burroughs, Cage, and Kathy Acker.

Their writing emerges as a powerful counterprogram to the assertive power articulated by Foucault and Deleuze in the 1970s, enriching the literary landscape with profound insights and innovative approaches.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 160 x 237 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785277221