Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Lacan (But Were Afraid to Ask Hitchcock) : Book Review

"Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Lacan (But Were Afraid to Ask Hitchcock)" is an engaging and thought-provoking book by Slavoj Žižek that delves into the world of psychoanalysis, specifically focusing on the theories of Jacques Lacan. What sets this book apart is Žižek's unique approach of using the films of Alfred Hitchcock as a lens to explore and explain these complex concepts in a way that is accessible to both cinema enthusiasts and those interested in psychoanalytic theory.

The book begins by providing readers with a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of Lacanian psychoanalysis, ensuring that even those unfamiliar with the field can grasp the terminology and ideas that will be discussed throughout. Žižek then takes readers on a cinematic journey, closely analyzing various Hitchcock films and skillfully connecting them to Lacanian theories to shed light on both the films and the psychoanalytic concepts.

One of the standout qualities of this book is Žižek's ability to make intricate ideas relatable and understandable. He expertly combines popular culture references with theoretical analysis, making the concepts more accessible to a wide range of readers. This approach not only enhances the understanding of Lacanian theory, but also offers a fresh perspective on Hitchcock's renowned works.

Moreover, the book delves into Lacan's ideas surrounding desire, identity, and the unconscious, drawing intriguing parallels between Lacanian theory and Hitchcock's portrayal of suspense, voyeurism, and the uncanny. Žižek's analysis is thought-provoking and prompts readers to reevaluate both the films and their understanding of psychoanalysis.

In summary, "Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Lacan (But Were Afraid to Ask Hitchcock)" is an intellectually stimulating read that offers a unique exploration of psychoanalysis through the lens of Alfred Hitchcock's films. Slavoj Žižek's skillful and entertaining analysis makes complex ideas accessible and bridges the gap between theory and popular culture. Whether you're a fan of Hitchcock, interested in psychoanalysis, or simply curious about expanding your knowledge, this book is an enlightening and captivating choice.

What are readers saying?

The book "Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Lacan (But Were Afraid to Ask Hitchcock)" by Slavoj Žižek has received a range of reviews, displaying a mix of opinions. One reviewer commended the book for its ability to present complex concepts in an accessible manner. They found Žižek's writing engaging and appreciated how he incorporated examples from Hitchcock films, effectively intertwining Lacanian theory with cinema. According to this reviewer, the book deepened their understanding of both Lacan and film, making it a valuable resource for those interested in these subjects.

Another reviewer regarded the book as an excellent introduction to Lacan's work. They appreciated Žižek's use of pop culture references and his witty writing style, which added relatability and enjoyment to the reading experience. This reviewer also highlighted the book's clear structure, making it easier to follow the intricate ideas being presented.

However, not all reviews were positive. One reader found the book to be overly complex and challenging to comprehend. They felt that Žižek's writing style was convoluted and abstract, making it difficult to grasp the concepts he sought to convey. Moreover, the reviewer noted that the book heavily focused on Lacan, which may not be suitable for readers unfamiliar with his work.

Another reviewer expressed disappointment with the book, stating that it lacked fresh insights into Lacanian theory. They felt that the content became repetitive and lacked the depth and originality they had anticipated. Additionally, the reviewer mentioned that the book seemed more like a collection of disconnected essays rather than a cohesive exploration of Lacan and Hitchcock.

In summary, Žižek's book "Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Lacan (But Were Afraid to Ask Hitchcock)" has elicited mixed reviews. While some readers appreciated the book's accessibility, engaging writing style, and integration of pop culture references, others found it overly complex and repetitive. It is recommended for readers with prior knowledge of Lacan's work or an interest in the intersection between Lacanian theory and cinema.

LacanExplained PsychoanalyticInsights BookRecommendations