James Joyce and Cultural Genetics: The Joycean Genome

This book explores James Joyce's creative DNA by examining the cultural forces that shaped him and his books, revealing a two-way relationship with history, memory, and national identity. It investigates how Joyce used cultural materials creatively in his writing, defining "cultural genetics" as an exploration of the textual material that interacts with the culture that produced and received it.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This captivating book delves into the intricate tapestry of James Joyce's literary legacy, unveiling the profound influence of cultural forces on his creative genius. Through a meticulous genetic study, it explores the two-way relationship between Joyce and history, memory, and national identity, unveiling the intricate threads that shaped his oeuvre.

Beginning with his early development as an author, the book revisits and reevaluates Joyce's evolving attitudes towards the Irish Revival. It traces his journey from the poignant portrayal of the Irish countryside in Chamber Music to the epic masterpiece of Ulysses and the visionary exploration of human consciousness in Finnegans Wake.

Joyce's literary odyssey was driven by a deep desire to define a cultural identity that defied mainstream conventions yet remained firmly rooted in the broader Revivalist project. He sought to create a unique blend of tradition and modernity, drawing upon the rich cultural heritage of Ireland while pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

To unravel the creative DNA of Joyce's work, the book employs a rigorous investigation of the cultural materials that influenced him. Drawing from his personal library and the extensive archive of reading notes, ideas, sketches, and drafts, it sheds light on how Joyce ingeniously used, absorbed, and repurposed these materials to craft his literary masterpieces.

By integrating the methods of genetic criticism into the realm of cultural memory and the sociology of the text, the book establishes "cultural genetics" as an exploration of the intricate interplay between Joyce's textual sources and the culture that produced and received them. It delves into the complex web of influences, resonances, and adaptations that shaped his writing, providing a fresh perspective on his artistic genius.

In conclusion, this book is a groundbreaking contribution to Joyce studies, offering a profound understanding of the cultural forces that shaped his life and work. Through its meticulous analysis and innovative approach, it sheds light on the enduring legacy of James Joyce, a writer who continues to inspire and captivate readers worldwide.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350169883