On American Fiction

Jean-Paul Sartre is widely recognized as one of the most important philosophers of the 20th century, and his work remains relevant and thought-provoking. The Seagull Sartre Library presents his most incisive philosophical, cultural, and literary critical essays in twelve newly designed and affordable editions, demonstrating his astonishing grasp of American fiction.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 56 pages
Publication date: 21 December 2021
Publisher: Seagull Books London Ltd

Jean-Paul Sartre, a renowned French novelist, playwright, and essayist, is widely acknowledged as one of the most influential philosophers of the 20th century. His profound and enduring contributions to philosophy have continued to resonate and inspire throughout the decades. The Seagull Sartre Library is proud to present a collection of his most insightful and thought-provoking philosophical, cultural, and literary critical essays, now available in twelve newly designed and affordable editions.

Sartre's literary exploration extended far beyond the confines of his French contemporaries. In this concise volume, he showcases his remarkable understanding of the intricacies of American fiction, as he delves into the works of three of the most significant 20th-century writers: John Dos Passos, Vladimir Nabokov, and William Faulkner. Sartre praises their "humanism" as the only acceptable form of literature, highlighting their ability to portray the complexities of human existence with honesty and depth.

John Dos Passos, known for his experimental and fragmented narrative style, is examined by Sartre in his essay "The Novel as a Humanism." He explores Dos Passos's use of multiple characters and perspectives to portray the social and political changes of the 20th century, highlighting his commitment to social realism and his exploration of the human condition. Sartre also discusses Dos Passos's use of symbolism and metaphor to convey deeper meanings and themes, emphasizing his artistic innovation and his contribution to the development of modern literature.

Vladimir Nabokov, renowned for his intricate and complex novels, is analyzed by Sartre in his essay "The Art of Fiction." Sartre praises Nabokov's ability to create vivid and realistic characters, as well as his mastery of language and narrative techniques. He discusses Nabokov's use of symbolism, irony, and metaphor to convey complex ideas and emotions, highlighting his artistic brilliance and his contribution to the evolution of literary fiction.

William Faulkner, known for his Southern Gothic novels and his exploration of the human psyche, is examined by Sartre in his essay "The Humanism of William Faulkner." Sartre praises Faulkner's ability to create complex and nuanced characters, as well as his deep understanding of the human condition. He discusses Faulkner's use of symbolism, myth, and folklore to convey the cultural and historical context of his works, highlighting his artistic integrity and his contribution to American literature.

Through his analysis of these three writers, Sartre demonstrates his profound understanding of the human condition and his commitment to promoting humanism in literature. His essays provide valuable insights into the artistic and philosophical dimensions of these writers' works, and they continue to inspire readers and scholars alike. The Seagull Sartre Library's collection of these critical essays is a testament to Sartre's enduring legacy and his profound impact on the world of literature.

Weight: 72g
Dimension: 128 x 202 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780857429155