Rebecca West and the God That Failed: Essays : Book Review

"Rebecca West and the God That Failed" by Carl Rollyson is an in-depth exploration of the life and intellectual journey of Rebecca West, a prominent British journalist, novelist, and critic. Rollyson carefully examines how West's personal experiences influenced her views on politics, society, and religion throughout her life.

The book draws its title from "The God That Failed," a well-known collection of essays by former communists and socialists. Rollyson skillfully intertwines West's personal life with her ideological transformation, tracing her initial embrace of socialism and her subsequent disillusionment with the ideology.

Through meticulous research, Rollyson provides readers with a profound understanding of West's complex personality and the intricacies of her writing. He delves into her relationships with renowned intellectuals and political figures of her time, such as H.G. Wells, George Bernard Shaw, and Josip Broz Tito. This sheds light on the intellectual and cultural climate of the era in which West lived and worked.

In addition to exploring West's personal life, Rollyson also delves into her distinguished writing career. He highlights her notable contributions to literature and journalism, including her well-known works such as "The Return of the Soldier" and "Black Lamb and Grey Falcon." Rollyson analyzes the central themes and ideas present in her writing, offering readers a deeper appreciation for her literary achievements.

Overall, "Rebecca West and the God That Failed" is a comprehensive and well-researched biography that provides a nuanced perspective on the life and works of an influential writer. Rollyson's engaging writing style and attention to detail make this book essential for anyone interested in understanding the life and intellectual evolution of Rebecca West, as well as the broader sociopolitical climate of the 20th century.

What are readers saying?

"Rebecca West and the God That Failed" written by Carl Rollyson is a thought-provoking biography that delves into the life and literary achievements of the renowned writer Rebecca West. Rollyson's meticulous research and captivating writing style have garnered praise from readers, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in West's fascinating story.

Reviewers have applauded the book for its comprehensive examination of West's life and the profound impact she had on the literary world. Rollyson's extensive research is evident throughout the book, providing readers with a wealth of information about West's personal relationships, writing career, and overall persona.

Many readers have particularly commended Rollyson's ability to present intricate ideas in a clear and accessible manner. The author's engaging writing style has made it effortless for readers to delve into the book and gain a deeper understanding of West's life, as well as the cultural and political landscapes in which she operated.

Furthermore, reviewers have appreciated Rollyson's objective approach to portraying West's life and work. The author does not shy away from presenting the flaws and controversies surrounding West, which allows readers to develop a well-rounded perspective of the writer.

Some readers have found the focus on West's involvement with communism and her relationships with prominent figures of the time particularly fascinating. The insights into West's ideological journey and her disillusionment with the communist movement, as depicted in the book's title, "God That Failed," have resonated with many.

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