In "Pleasing Myself," Frank Kermode presents a captivating memoir that beautifully showcases his extraordinary life and illustrious career as a distinguished literary critic. From his early upbringing in the early 20th century to his scholarly pursuits at Cambridge and renowned academic institutions, Kermode shares his personal experiences and encounters with prominent figures in the literary world, all while offering profound insights into art, literature, and culture.
With a delightful blend of wit, wisdom, and charm, Kermode takes readers on a remarkable journey through his intellectual development and the evolution of his own critical prowess. He regales us with fascinating anecdotes and reflections on his interactions with literary giants like T.S. Eliot, W.H. Auden, and Samuel Beckett, allowing us to peek into the vibrant intellectual and literary landscape of his time.
Beyond his personal journey, Kermode delves deep into the essence of literary criticism. He shares valuable insights into the complexities of the critic's role, the challenges faced in interpreting and understanding diverse works of literature, and the limitations and responsibilities that come with analyzing art. These reflections provide readers with a profound appreciation for the art of criticism and its significance in our understanding of literature.
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However, "Pleasing Myself" is more than just a memoir or a treatise on literary criticism. Kermode engages in a thoughtful contemplation of language, storytelling, and the profound impact that literature can have on our lives. His reflections on the human condition and the transformative power of literature make this book a true gem for anyone passionate about literature, criticism, or the profound intellectual insights of one of the great literary minds of our time.
Overall, "Pleasing Myself" offers readers an enthralling narrative that beautifully blends personal experiences, intellectual insights, and reflections on literature and art. Kermode's lucid prose and profound observations ensure that both experienced readers and newcomers to the world of literary criticism will find enlightenment and inspiration within the pages of this remarkable memoir.
What are readers saying?
Pleasing Myself, a collection of essays by Frank Kermode, has garnered a mixed response from readers. This book covers a variety of topics and has attracted both praise and criticism.
There are reviewers who found Pleasing Myself to be a thought-provoking and insightful collection. They appreciated Kermode's intellect and the wide range of subjects he explored. These readers enjoyed the depth and complexity of his analysis, finding it to be a rewarding reading experience. Kermode's engaging writing style and ability to challenge readers' thinking were also well-received.
However, not all readers were impressed with Pleasing Myself. Some felt that the book lacked focus and that the essays were disjointed. They found Kermode's writing too dense and academic, making it difficult to fully engage with the material. These readers also expressed disappointment with the overall structure of the book, noting a lack of a cohesive narrative thread.
In addition, a few reviewers mentioned their unfamiliarity with cultural references made by Kermode, which limited their enjoyment of certain sections. They felt that this hindered their overall understanding and appreciation of the book.
In summary, Frank Kermode's Pleasing Myself has elicited a range of responses from readers. While some praised the depth and complexity of the essays, others found the book lacking in focus and accessibility. Ultimately, whether or not this book provides a pleasurable reading experience depends on individual preferences and familiarity with the topics covered by Kermode.
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