Faulknerista

Faulknerista collects critical scholarship on William Faulkner's writings, addressing debates about race, queer sexualities, and the N-word in literature and popular culture. The book offers a new model for single-author scholarship, balancing admiration with skepticism and engaging with contemporary issues.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 16 November 2022
Publisher: Louisiana State University Press

Faulknerista is a comprehensive collection of over twenty years of critical scholarship by Catherine Gunther Kodat, delving into the writings of one of the most significant American authors of the twentieth century, William Faulkner. Initially presented as freestanding essays, this book has been revised and updated to reflect current debates surrounding the politics of white authors who write about race, queer sexualities, and the use of the N-word in literature and popular culture. The title of the book, "Faulknerista," refers to a critic who fearlessly engages with these debates, balancing admiration with skepticism in a manner that establishes a groundbreaking model for single-author scholarship. This scholarship is both historically grounded, as women have been writing about Faulkner and engaging with his work since the beginning of his career, and urgently contemporary, addressing the issues of our time.

The book begins with an introductory chapter that emphasizes the critical importance of women's engagement with Faulkner's fiction. It conducts comparative discussions, pairing Faulkner's works with those of other notable authors such as Toni Morrison, Jean-Luc Godard, Quentin Tarantino, and David Simon. Through these comparisons, Faulknerista offers valuable insights into Faulkner's literary style, themes, and influences, making it an essential resource for students, scholars, and general readers alike.

Written in an accessible and engaging style, the book aims to stimulate discussions about Faulkner's work and the rich interpretive challenges it continues to present. It encourages readers to explore new perspectives and interpretations of Faulkner's novels, essays, and short stories, fostering a deeper understanding of his artistic legacy. Whether one is a seasoned Faulkner scholar or a newcomer to his work, Faulknerista provides a wealth of information and ideas that will enrich their appreciation of this influential author.

Weight: 482g
Dimension: 152 x 230 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780807178492