Oppositions: Selected Essays

Mary Gaitskill's essays are nuanced, daring, and tender, exploring a broad range of topics with her unique ability to tease out unexpected truths and challenge received wisdom. They inspire the reader to think beyond their first responses to life and art, covering thirty years of her writing and spanning subjects as diverse as Dancer in the Dark, Charles Dickens, and the Book of Revelation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2023
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

Mary Gaitskill is a writer who is willing to delve into the complexities of human nature and society without resorting to simplistic moralizing or taking sides. Her essays, which are collected in the book "Oppositions," exhibit a nuanced, daring, and tender approach to various topics. Gaitskill's writing is characterized by her unique ability to uncover unexpected truths and challenge established beliefs. She tackles a wide range of subjects, from the works of Nabokov to her experiences with horse riding, and does so with grace, linguistic flair, and a deep understanding of the human condition.

One of the standout qualities of Gaitskill's writing is her ability to explore the complicated nature of love and the responsibilities we hold towards the people we encounter. She questions the societal norms and expectations that govern our relationships and challenges us to think beyond our initial reactions to life and art. Through her essays, Gaitskill encourages the reader to engage in critical thinking and to consider different perspectives.

The collection "Oppositions" spans thirty years of Mary Gaitskill's writing and covers a diverse range of subjects. From her novel "Dancer in the Dark" to her essays on Charles Dickens and the Book of Revelation, Gaitskill's writing is always engaging and thought-provoking. She combines sincerity and wit in her writing, creating a unique and captivating style that has won her numerous accolades and fans.

In conclusion, Mary Gaitskill is a writer who refuses to be pigeonholed or limited by conventional boundaries. Her essays, which are collected in "Oppositions," exhibit a depth of thought and a commitment to exploring the complexities of human nature and society. Gaitskill's unique approach to writing inspires the reader to think beyond their first responses and to engage in critical thinking about the world around them. Whether she is discussing literature, politics, or personal experiences, Gaitskill's writing is always captivating and thought-provoking.

Weight: 180g
Dimension: 198 x 128 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788168168
Edition number: Main