Delusions of Grandeur: American Essays

In his book "Delusions of Grandeur," Joey Franklin explores American mythologies such as white supremacy, rugged individualism, toxic masculinity, and religious extremism, and how they manifest in the life of a husband and father approaching forty. He questions the importance of seeing clearly as a citizen, parent, child, neighbor, and human being and offers insights into cultural critiques, parental confessions, and American obsessions with race, class, religion, and family.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2020
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Delusions of Grandeur is a thought-provoking book by Joey Franklin that delves into the dreams and delusions of America's most persistent mythologies, including white supremacy, rugged individualism, toxic masculinity, and religious extremism. Through the life of a husband and father approaching forty, Franklin explores how these beliefs manifest themselves and the challenges they pose to individuals, families, and society as a whole.

The book is rich in research and employs a playful and lyrical attention to language, making it accessible and engaging for readers of all ages. Franklin poses candid questions about what it takes to see clearly as a citizen, parent, child, neighbor, and human being in today's complex and often confusing world.

One of the key themes of Delusions of Grandeur is the intersection of personal and political life. Franklin argues that the personal is always political and that our beliefs, values, and behaviors have profound implications for society as a whole. He explores how our American obsessions with race, class, religion, and family shape our perceptions of ourselves and others, and how these obsessions can lead to discrimination, inequality, and violence.

Franklin also examines the role of media and popular culture in perpetuating these mythologies. He argues that media outlets often reinforce stereotypes and biases, contributing to the perpetuation of harmful beliefs and attitudes. He provides examples of how video games like Fortnite and Minecraft, which are popular among young people, reveal our appetites for destruction and our desire for escapism.

Delusions of Grandeur is not just a cultural critique, but also a parental confessional. Franklin shares his own experiences and struggles as a father, and how he has tried to navigate the challenges of raising children in a society that often promotes harmful beliefs and attitudes. He offers insights and advice to other parents who are seeking to raise children in a more inclusive and equitable world.

Overall, Delusions of Grandeur is a powerful and important book that challenges our assumptions and beliefs about America and its mythologies. It provides a thoughtful and nuanced analysis of the issues that affect us all, and offers practical solutions for building a more inclusive and equitable society. Whether you are a reader interested in culture, politics, or family life, this book is a must-read.

Weight: 298g
Dimension: 140 x 215 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496212108