Laurie Anderson's Big Science

Laurie Anderson's Big Science is a groundbreaking album that explores crises of meaning, scale, and identity in 1982. Decades later, its strange questions remain relevant: how do we remain human in a digital world? How does technology bring us closer together or further apart? How do we experience the stillness of now? How does our experience become memory? This book delves into the making and meanings of the album and Anderson's long artistic career, offering new research, reception history, and creativity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 25 March 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Shimmering in a captivating blend of maximal minimalism, joyful bleakness, and bodiless intimacy, Laurie Anderson's iconic album "Big Science" released in 1982, diagnosed profound crises of meaning, scale, and identity. Decades later, the enigmatic questions it raises continue to loom larger than ever: How do we maintain our humanity in a world where our identities are increasingly distributed digitally? Does technology foster a sense of connection or create further divisions among us? Can we embrace the present moment amidst the constant flux of time? How does our experience transform into memory?

Laurie Anderson, a trailblazer in the realm of performance art, emerged as its first and most enduring superstar. In this captivating book, author S. Alexander Reed delves into the extraordinary creation and profound meanings of this singular album and the artist's illustrious artistic career. Packed with meticulous new research, a comprehensive reception history, vivid descriptions, and a whirlwind of creativity, this book serves as an interdisciplinary love letter to a record whose sounds, politics, and expressions of gendered identity continue to resonate with increasing relevance in our ever-changing world.

Anderson's "Big Science" stands as a testament to her exceptional talent and visionary approach. The album weaves together a tapestry of soundscapes, ranging from haunting melodies to pulsating rhythms, creating a mesmerizing and immersive experience. At the same time, it poses thought-provoking questions about the nature of identity, technology, and the human condition.

Through meticulous research and analysis, Reed sheds light on the creative process behind "Big Science." He explores Anderson's influences, from classical music to contemporary art, and delves into the philosophical underpinnings of her work. The book provides a deep understanding of the album's themes, symbols, and metaphors, allowing listeners to appreciate its intricate layers and profound messages.

In addition to its academic value, "Big Science" offers a captivating journey through Anderson's artistic career. Reed traces the evolution of her style, from her early experimental works to her more mainstream successes. He highlights the political and social commentary embedded within her art, addressing issues such as gender, power, and surveillance. Anderson's ability to blend art, music, and performance seamlessly is showcased, creating a multi-dimensional experience that challenges the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

One of the most striking aspects of "Big Science" is its exploration of the relationship between technology and human identity. Anderson questions the extent to which our digital presence shapes our sense of self and the connections we form with others. She explores the paradoxical nature of technology, which can both bring us closer together and create a sense of isolation. Through her music and performances, Anderson invites us to reflect on the ethical implications of our digital interactions and the impact they have on our sense of belonging.

Another theme that emerges in "Big Science" is the concept of time and its relentless march. Anderson acknowledges the constant flux of time and the challenges it presents to our ability to experience the present moment. She encourages us to embrace the stillness of now, even amidst the chaos of our daily lives. Through her music and performances, Anderson offers a meditation on the nature of time and its impact on our perception of reality.

In conclusion, Laurie Anderson's "Big Science" is a masterpiece that continues to inspire and provoke thought long after its release. Through its captivating blend of maximal minimalism, joyful bleakness, and bodiless intimacy, the album diagnoses profound crises of meaning, scale, and identity. Decades later, its enigmatic questions remain relevant as we navigate a world increasingly shaped by technology and its impact on our lives. This book, written with meticulous research and creativity, offers a deep appreciation of Anderson's artistic vision and provides a valuable contribution to the understanding of performance art and its enduring significance.

Weight: 228g
Dimension: 140 x 208 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190926021