Vital Stein: Gertrude Stein, Modernism and Life

This book explores Gertrude Stein's relationship with late-nineteenth and twentieth-century thinkers, such as Wilhelm Dilthey, Henri Bergson, Walter Benjamin, and A.N. Whitehead, who viewed life as an open, differential system.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 14 February 2024
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This captivating book delves into the life and work of Gertrude Stein, a remarkable writer who sought to capture the essence of existence through her literary creations. The author argues that Stein's ideas are closely connected to a group of late-nineteenth and twentieth-century thinkers who shared her vision of life as an open, dynamic, and ever-changing system. Through a seamless blend of insightful analysis and engaging narrative, the chapters in this book explore the profound influences of Wilhelm Dilthey, Henri Bergson, Walter Benjamin, and A.N. Whitehead on Stein's thought. By presenting these thinkers alongside Stein, the author offers readers a fresh and alternative vitalist framework that sheds light on the complexities of human experience and the interconnectedness of all things. This thought-provoking work will captivate scholars, students, and anyone with an interest in the profound mysteries of life and the power of literature to illuminate them.

Introduction:
In the annals of literary history, Gertrude Stein stands as a towering figure, her unique voice and vision leaving an indelible mark on the world of literature. Her unwavering pursuit of capturing the essence of life in writing has earned her a place among a select group of late-nineteenth and twentieth-century thinkers who saw life as an open, dynamic, and ever-changing system. This book aims to explore the profound connections between Stein and these thinkers, shedding light on their shared belief in the inherent vitality of existence.
Wilhelm Dilthey:
Wilhelm Dilthey, a German philosopher known for his influential work in the field of cultural history, played a significant role in shaping Stein's philosophical outlook. Dilthey's emphasis on the importance of human experience and the subjective nature of knowledge resonated with Stein's belief in the uniqueness of each individual's perspective. Stein's writings often reflected her fascination with the complexities of human consciousness and the ways in which individuals navigate the world through their senses and emotions.
Henri Bergson:
Henri Bergson, a French philosopher renowned for his theories on time and consciousness, left a lasting impact on Stein's work. Stein was particularly drawn to Bergson's concept of "duration," which posits that time is not linear but rather a qualitative experience that encompasses the past, present, and future. Stein's writings often explored the relationship between time and memory, as well as the ways in which individuals perceive and interpret the world around them.
Walter Benjamin:
Walter Benjamin, a German essayist and cultural critic, was another key figure who influenced Stein's thinking. Benjamin's writings on the nature of art, history, and the experience of modernity resonated with Stein's interest in the role of culture in shaping individual identity and society. Stein's writings often incorporated elements of collage, fragmentation, and montage, reflecting Benjamin's notion of the "aura" of objects and the way in which they evoke emotional responses.
A.N. Whitehead:
A.N. Whitehead, an English philosopher and mathematician, was yet another thinker who had a profound influence on Stein's work. Whitehead's concept of "process" and his belief in the interdependence of all things resonated with Stein's understanding of life as a continuous flow of energy and change. Stein's writings often explored the relationship between the individual and the larger universe, as well as the ways in which human actions and experiences can shape the course of history.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book offers a fresh and insightful perspective on Gertrude Stein's life and work, highlighting the profound connections she shared with a group of late-nineteenth and twentieth-century thinkers. Through a seamless blend of analysis and narrative, the chapters in this book provide readers with a valuable alternative vitalist framework that sheds light on the complexities of human experience and the interconnectedness of all things. Whether you are a scholar, student, or simply a lover of literature, this book will captivate your imagination and inspire you to explore the depths of existence and the power of creativity.

Weight: 392g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474425360