My Life in Fragments

Zygmunt Bauman was a social thinker who invented the idea of liquid modernity and was shaped by war, communism, antisemitism, and forced migration. This book makes available for the first time his fragments of a life recounted, woven into a compelling autobiographical narrative.

Format: Hardback
Length: 238 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2023
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Zygmunt Bauman, a renowned social thinker of our time, has left an indelible mark on our understanding of the social forces that shape our lives. As the inventor of the concept of liquid modernity, he revolutionized our perspective on the societal conditions that mold our present reality. Born into a world marred by war, communism, antisemitism, and forced migration, Bauman's own life was intricately intertwined with the profound social upheavals of the second half of the twentieth century. His work bears the imprint of an outsider who intimately witnessed the devastating impact of social and political forces on individual lives.

While Bauman never penned a comprehensive biography, he penned extended letters to his daughters, sharing the intricacies of his life. These letters, spanning his childhood, education, wartime experiences, forced emigration from Poland in 1968, and his subsequent life in exile in Israel and the UK, form the foundation of this captivating autobiographical narrative. Presented here for the first time, these fragments of a life recounted are skillfully woven into a rich tapestry of broader reflections on profound issues of our time, including identity, antisemitism, and totalitarianism.

Through his writings, Bauman invites us to explore the complexities of human existence and the profound impact of social structures on our lives. He challenges us to reflect on our identities, the forces that shape our beliefs, and the consequences of ideologies that seek to control and manipulate. Bauman's insights are as relevant today as they were when he first articulated them, offering a timeless wisdom that continues to inspire and provoke thought.

In conclusion, Zygmunt Bauman's legacy as a social thinker is profound and enduring. His idea of liquid modernity has reshaped our understanding of society, and his autobiographical narrative provides a window into the life and thoughts of a master thinker. Through his work, Bauman invites us to examine the intricacies of human existence, challenge our assumptions, and strive for a more compassionate and inclusive world.

Weight: 428g
Dimension: 146 x 223 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509551309