The Repeater Book of Heroism

John Lydon's 1976 statement that "I don't have any heroes, they're all useless" reflected a nihilistic, deconstructive impulse that would dominate intellectual, cultural, and political life for the next half-century. In response, authors behind Repeater Books have come together to redefine the idea of the hero for a twenty-first-century public, showcasing extraordinary human behavior from forgotten legends to anonymous family members. This compendium is essential reading for anyone who believes that heaven is other people.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 165 pages
Publication date: 10 May 2022
Publisher: Watkins Media

In a 1976 interview, John Lydon, a prominent figure of the punk movement, expressed his belief that he had no heroes. As a spokesperson for the punk generation, Lydon's statement echoed a nihilistic and deconstructive impulse that would significantly influence intellectual, cultural, and political life for the next fifty years. However, one of the challenges facing the modern world is the loss of a clear understanding of what heroism truly means. What if we reclaimed the concept of heroism from the hands of fascists and neoliberal ideologues, and proclaimed that, despite all odds, a hero can and should be something to aspire to?

In these thought-provoking essays, the authors behind the uncompromising project of Repeater Books come together to redefine the idea of the hero for a twenty-first-century public that desperately needs something to believe in. Spanning from iconic figures like Eric Cantona and Wile E Coyote to lesser-known legends and anonymous family members, this comprehensive compendium of extraordinary human behavior offers essential insights for anyone who has ever questioned Jean-Paul Sartre's assertion that "heaven is other people."

Through their diverse perspectives and experiences, the authors challenge traditional notions of heroism and explore new dimensions of bravery, resilience, and compassion. They remind us that heroes can emerge from unexpected places and that their actions can have a profound impact on the world around us. Whether it's standing up against injustice, advocating for social change, or simply being a source of support and inspiration to others, the authors argue that heroism is a vital aspect of human existence that deserves to be celebrated and emulated.

In a time when cynicism and skepticism dominate our societal discourse, the essays in Repeater Books provide a much-needed reminder of the power of heroism. They offer a roadmap for reclaiming the concept and fostering a sense of hope and inspiration in a world that often feels lost and disoriented. By embracing the idea that a hero can be anyone who embodies courage, integrity, and a commitment to making a positive difference, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive society that values the contributions of all individuals.

So, let us embark on this journey of redefining heroism together. By reading these essays and embracing the qualities of heroism that resonate with us, we can become agents of change and make a lasting impact on the world around us. As John Lydon once said, "Without heroes, we're nothing." Let us strive to be the heroes we need and deserve to be.

Weight: 292g
Dimension: 136 x 203 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914420023
Edition number: New ed