Sontag and Kael: Opposites Attract Me : Book Review

"Sontag & Kael: Opposites Attract Me" by Craig Seligman is a captivating exploration of the lives and works of Susan Sontag and Pauline Kael, two influential figures in cultural criticism. Seligman goes beyond just analyzing their writings, delving into their personal lives and the cultural landscape of their time.

One of the central themes Seligman examines is the contrasting styles of criticism embodied by Sontag and Kael. Sontag's approach is characterized by cerebral intellectualism, while Kael represents the emotional, populist perspective. Seligman highlights their different upbringings, including Sontag's privileged background and Kael's middle-class upbringing, and how these experiences influenced their views on art and culture. By offering a detailed account of their personal lives, Seligman reveals the challenges and triumphs they faced in both their professional and personal relationships.

In addition to providing an in-depth analysis of their works, Seligman charts the course of their careers, from Sontag's influential essays on aesthetics and culture to Kael's groundbreaking film criticism. Through excerpts from their writings, he showcases their unique voices and writing styles. Moreover, Seligman situates their work within the context of the cultural and societal changes of the 1960s and 1970s, during which both figures played pivotal roles in shaping public discourse.

Seligman's writing is engaging and insightful, offering a balanced analysis of Sontag and Kael's impact on the world of criticism. By presenting their conflicting ideologies, he adds depth and nuance to their individual legacies, highlighting how their differing approaches continue to inspire and influence generations of critics today. Overall, "Sontag & Kael: Opposites Attract Me" is a thought-provoking exploration of two influential figures in cultural criticism, leaving readers with a deeper appreciation for the complexities of their work and the power of diverse perspectives.

"Sontag and Kael" by Craig Seligman is a thought-provoking book that delves into the lives and works of two notable American cultural critics, Susan Sontag and Pauline Kael. Critics and readers alike have largely praised Seligman's insightful analysis and engaging writing style. However, some readers felt that the book exhibited bias in favor of Kael.

Many reviewers appreciate Seligman's comprehensive exploration of Sontag and Kael's lives and philosophies. They commend his ability to provide a thorough overview of their work, blending literary criticism with personal anecdotes. This approach grants readers a deeper understanding of these cultural icons.

Seligman's engaging writing style is frequently mentioned in reviews, with readers appreciating his incorporation of humor and wit into his analysis. This makes the book a pleasurable and accessible read. Some reviewers also commend Seligman's ability to present complex ideas in a straightforward manner, allowing a wide range of readers to appreciate and engage with the material.

However, a few reviews note a perceived bias in the book, suggesting that Seligman is more critical towards Sontag and favors Kael. These readers express disappointment and believe that this bias compromises the overall balance and objectivity of the book.

Despite this criticism, the general consensus among reviewers is that "Sontag and Kael" is a well-researched and engaging book. It offers a fascinating exploration of the intellectual and cultural impact of Sontag and Kael's writings. Seligman's analysis and writing style receive praise, although some reviewers feel that the book lacks impartiality. Overall, "Sontag and Kael" is considered a worthwhile read for those interested in the lives and works of these influential critics.

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