Wallace Stegner's Unsettled Country: Ruin, Realism, and Possibility in the American West

Wallace Stegner is a renowned western writer known for his fiction and nonfiction works that capture the beauty and character of the American West. His book, "Unsettled Country," explores his life, work, and legacy in light of contemporary issues and crises, highlighting his racial liberalism, regional vision, gendered views, conservation efforts, economic struggles, and attachment to the region. The contributors offer insights into Stegners enduring relevance to those concerned about the West's future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 15 January 2024
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Wallace Stegner, a renowned western writer, has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape with his captivating works of fiction. His Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Angle of Repose and the enchanting Big Rock Candy Mountain have introduced thousands of readers to the awe-inspiring beauty and unique character of the American West. Stegner's literary prowess extended beyond fiction, as his nonfiction books and essays showcased the rich tapestry of the region's history, culture, and natural wonders.

In his insightful book, Wallace Stegner's Unsettled Country, scholars and experts delve into the life, work, and enduring legacy of this influential writer. The contributors explore Stegner's thought-provoking ideas and perspectives, assessing his contributions to the understanding and appreciation of the American West. Through a multidisciplinary approach, they examine Stegner's racial liberalism, regional vision, gendered worldview, conservation efforts, economic challenges, longing for community, and deep attachment to the region.

By drawing from a wide range of sources, including history, literature, philosophy, law, geography, and park management, the contributors offer a comprehensive examination of Stegner's life and work. They analyze his racial liberalism, highlighting his commitment to social justice and equality, as well as his nuanced understanding of the complexities of race and ethnicity in the West. They also explore his regional vision, examining how he captured the essence of the American West in his writings, from its rugged landscapes to its complex cultural heritage.

Stegner's gendered view of the world is another focal point of the book. The contributors analyze his portrayal of women and men, exploring how he challenged traditional gender roles and presented nuanced and complex characters. They examine his understanding of power dynamics and his contributions to feminist discourse in the western literature.

Furthermore, Stegner's insights into conservation and the environment are explored in depth. His advocacy for preserving natural resources and his commitment to sustainable practices have left a lasting impact on the field. The contributors discuss his contributions to the conservation movement and his understanding of the delicate balance between human development and ecological preservation.

Stegner's personal experiences of economic collapse and poverty also play a significant role in understanding his worldview. The contributors examine how these experiences shaped his perspective on society and his writings, highlighting his empathy for those facing economic hardships and his belief in the resilience of the human spirit.

Lastly, the book explores Stegner's yearning for community and his attachment to the West. The contributors examine how his writings reflected his deep connection to the land and his desire to preserve the region's unique cultural heritage. They discuss his role as a cultural ambassador and his efforts to promote understanding and appreciation of the American West.

Wallace Stegner's Unsettled Country serves as a valuable reclamation of his enduring relevance to anyone concerned about the uncertain future of the American West. It provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of Stegner's life, work, and ideas, offering valuable insights into the region's past, present, and potential future. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the book encourages readers to engage with Stegner's legacy and consider his contributions to the understanding and appreciation of the American West.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496236173