Antonin Artaud: Poet Without Words : Book Review

"Antonin Artaud: Poet Without Words" by Naomi Greene offers a comprehensive and captivating exploration of the life and art of the influential French playwright and poet, Antonin Artaud. Through her vivid storytelling, Greene delves into Artaud's tumultuous personal life and groundbreaking contributions to the world of theater and literature.

One of the remarkable features of this biography is Greene's ability to present Artaud's work within the wider context of cultural and artistic movements of his time. By carefully analyzing his writings and performances, she demonstrates how Artaud challenged conventional ideas of theater and language, leaving a lasting impact on future generations of artists.

Greene delves into Artaud's unconventional upbringing, providing a deeper understanding of how it shaped his artistic vision. She discusses his struggles with mental illness and his exploration of surrealism and the avant-garde, shedding light on the various facets of his life that influenced his unique artistic expression.

The book also delves into the collaborative nature of Artaud's creative endeavors by exploring his relationships with other notable figures in the arts, such as André Breton and Jean Genet. Through detailed research, Greene brings to life the significant events and collaborations that shaped Artaud's career.

As a result of Greene's meticulous research, "Antonin Artaud: Poet Without Words" offers a richly detailed account of Artaud's life. From his troubled personal relationships to his influential contributions to theater and literature, Greene provides a comprehensive and engaging narrative that does justice to the complexity and brilliance of her subject.

What are readers saying?

"Antonin Artaud: Poet Without Words" by Naomi Greene has received a mixed reception among readers. Some commended the book for its thorough exploration of Artaud's life and artistic endeavors, while others criticized its overly academic tone and lack of accessibility.

One recurring theme in positive reviews was Greene's impressive research and extensive knowledge of Artaud. Readers appreciated her ability to delve into the intricate details of his life and creative pursuits. They found the book to be a valuable resource for gaining a deeper understanding of Artaud's contributions to literature and theater.

Another aspect that garnered praise was Greene's analysis of Artaud's unique writing style and experimentation with language. Readers commended her for effectively conveying the essence of his work and its impact on the literary world.

However, some readers expressed frustration with the book's excessively academic tone and emphasis on theoretical concepts. They found the writing style dense and difficult to engage with, making it hard to fully appreciate Artaud's significance. These readers believed that a more approachable and engaging writing style would have made the material more accessible to a wider audience.

Furthermore, a few reviewers felt that the book lacked a cohesive structure, with certain sections meandering into tangents unrelated to Artaud's life and work.

AntoninArtaud FrenchLiterature Surrealism