The Modern Myths: Adventures in the Machinery of the Popular Imagination

Philip Ball's The Modern Myths explores literature, new media, technology, storytelling, and the making and meaning of our most important tales, arguing that we are still writing and living modern myths today. These myths explore our deepest fears, dreams, and anxieties, and what makes a story become a modern myth.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2022
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

In his captivating book, "The Modern Myths," renowned science communicator Philip Ball delves into a fascinating exploration of literature, new media, technology, storytelling, and the profound essence of our most cherished tales. Myths, once perceived as ancient stories no longer believed by anyone, have a surprising presence in our modern world. As Ball reveals, we continue to create and live these myths today, with many stories from the past few centuries being labeled as "modern myths." However, he argues that we should take this concept seriously, recognizing that our modern myths perform a crucial cultural role akin to ancient myths. Through narratives with a basic outline and no clear moral or resolution, these modern myths delve into our deepest fears, dreams, and anxieties, offering us a means to confront and understand the complexities of our human experience.

We are drawn to these tales repeatedly, reinventing them endlessly for new purposes. But what lies at the heart of these stories, and why do we need them? What myths are still taking shape in our contemporary world? And what distinguishes a story from becoming a modern myth?

In "The Modern Myths," Ball takes readers on a captivating journey through our collective imagination, unearthing the hidden meanings and profound insights contained within some of our most popular stories. He examines the themes and motifs that resonate across different genres, from novels and comic books to B-movies, and sheds light on how these stories shape our understanding of the human condition in the modern age.

Through his insightful analysis, Ball challenges our preconceptions and encourages us to reevaluate the stories we tell ourselves and others. He explores the power of narrative to convey meaning, the role of technology in shaping our cultural landscape, and the ways in which storytelling can both reflect and influence societal norms and values.

"The Modern Myths" is a thought-provoking and illuminating book that offers a fresh perspective on the myths and legends that continue to shape our world. It is a must-read for anyone interested in literature, new media, technology, and the human condition, as it provides a deeper understanding of the stories that have shaped our culture and continue to influence us today.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226823843