D.H. Lawrence's Final Fictions: A Lacanian Perspective

D.H. Lawrence's Final Fictions: A Lacanian Perspective explores how literature influences behavior by examining how the reading of fiction influences our alienation from ourselves, other people, and the cosmos. Stoltzfus analyzes seven major characters in seven major fictions that Lawrence wrote between 1925 and 1930, showing how to circumvent dysfunction and bring literature and psychoanalysis together in readings that are both aesthetic and epistemological.

Format: Hardback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

D.H. Lawrence's Final Fictions: A Lacanian Perspective delves into the intricate realm of how literature operates, shedding light on the profound impact of reading fiction on behavior. Lawrence's writings, filled with a profound sense of alienation from ourselves, others, and the vast cosmos, ignite a passionate quest for connection and understanding. He ardently advocates for listening to the voices of our unconscious, guiding us toward a harmonious union of body and mind, enabling the integration of the id and ego on a psychoanalytical level. This captivating endeavor finds a remarkable convergence in Lawrence's writings and the profound insights of Jacques Lacan, the renowned French psychoanalyst.

In his book, Stoltzfus embarks on a meticulous exploration of the poetics of seven significant fictions penned by Lawrence during his fabulation period, spanning from 1925 to 1930. These five productive years mark a pivotal chapter in Lawrence's literary journey, as he delves into the depths of human experience and the complexities of the human psyche. Within the seven chapters of this book, Stoltzfus meticulously analyzes seven major characters, four of whom embark on a transformative journey from alienation to the renewal of self and the cosmos. Through a harmonious blend of Lacan's writings and his own analytical insights, Stoltzfus argues that Lawrence's fiction possesses a dual nature: it is both descriptive, offering vivid portrayals of human struggles and relationships, and prescriptive, offering valuable lessons and strategies for navigating the complexities of existence.

By seamlessly integrating literature and psychoanalysis, Stoltzfus presents readers with a unique and enriching reading experience. His interpretations blend aesthetic considerations with epistemological inquiries, offering a holistic approach to understanding the human condition. These readings serve as recipes for curing the Anthropocene, a term coined to describe the current era of environmental degradation and social unrest. Through his meticulous analysis and thoughtful interpretations, Stoltzfus invites us to explore the depths of our unconscious, embrace our inner selves, and strive for a harmonious relationship with the world around us.

D.H. Lawrence's Final Fictions: A Lacanian Perspective is a profound exploration of the interplay between literature and psychoanalysis, offering a rich tapestry of insights and perspectives that will captivate readers of all backgrounds. By delving into the complexities of human experience and the power of fiction to shape our lives, Stoltzfus provides a valuable contribution to the field of literary studies and psychoanalysis, inspiring us to navigate the challenges of our time with greater empathy, understanding, and hope.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666903676