B.S. Johnson: A Critical Reading : Book Review

"B.S. Johnson: A Critical Reading" by Philip Tew offers a detailed exploration of the life and works of British author B.S. Johnson. Tew provides readers with a comprehensive background on Johnson, delving into his early life and the influences that shaped his writing. The book emphasizes Johnson's experimental writing style and his propensity for breaking traditional narrative structures.

A strong aspect of this analysis is its thorough examination of Johnson's major works, including "Albert Angelo" and "The Unfortunates." Tew offers insightful interpretations of these novels, shedding light on the author's unique narrative techniques and their significance within the larger themes explored in his work.

Tew's exploration of Johnson's themes and preoccupations is another highlight of the book. The author delves into Johnson's exploration of identity, mortality, and the nature of storytelling. Tew demonstrates how Johnson's unconventional narrative techniques serve as a reflection of his deep engagement with these themes, ultimately creating a thought-provoking reading experience.

In addition to Johnson's literary works, Tew also delves into his foray into filmmaking. The book examines Johnson's unique approach to film narrative and his pioneering use of cinematic techniques. By discussing Johnson's films alongside his novels and poetry, the book provides a comprehensive overview of the author's artistic endeavors.

In summary, "B.S. Johnson: A Critical Reading" is an in-depth analysis of British author B.S. Johnson and his contributions to literature and film. Philip Tew's insightful interpretations and exploration of Johnson's works make this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Johnson's artistry.

What are readers saying?

Philip Tew's book, "B.S. Johnson," has garnered mixed reviews from readers. While some appreciate Tew's thorough analysis of the renowned British author's works, others find the book to be too dense and complex.

One reviewer commends Tew for his in-depth examination of B.S. Johnson's literary style, praising his exploration of innovative techniques and unconventional narrative structures. They also appreciate Tew's effort in shedding light on lesser-known aspects of Johnson's life and career, making the book an essential resource for those interested in Johnson's works.

However, another reader expresses frustration with the book, finding it overly academic and difficult to follow. They believe Tew's analysis to be dense and heavy-handed, which may limit its accessibility to a wider audience. Additionally, this reviewer criticizes Tew for focusing too much on academic discourse rather than delving into the emotional or personal aspects of Johnson's works.

On the other hand, another reviewer admires Tew's exploration of Johnson's use of collage and other avant-garde techniques. They find Tew's analysis engaging and informative, as he uncovers the layers of meaning behind Johnson's works. This reader also praises Tew for his thorough research and deep understanding of Johnson's literary contributions.

Conversely, a different reader finds Tew's analysis to be superficial and lacking in original insights. They argue that Tew spends too much time summarizing Johnson's works rather than delving into their deeper themes and implications. This reviewer expresses disappointment in the book's lack of fresh perspectives on Johnson's writing.

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