Tony Kushner : Book Review

"Tony Kushner" by Harold Bloom offers an insightful and comprehensive exploration of the life and work of the acclaimed playwright, Tony Kushner. Bloom, a renowned literary critic, delves into the themes, characters, and political implications present in Kushner's plays, providing readers with a deeper understanding of his unique and groundbreaking contributions to contemporary theater.

Throughout the book, Bloom thoroughly analyzes Kushner's most famous work, "Angels in America," emphasizing its significance as a powerful portrayal of the AIDS epidemic during the 1980s and its exploration of complex themes such as religion, politics, and identity. In addition to this seminal play, Bloom discusses Kushner's other notable works, including "A Bright Room Called Day" and "Slavs!," giving readers a comprehensive overview of the playwright's diverse body of work.

One of the book's notable strengths is Bloom's ability to place Kushner's writing within the broader literary and theatrical context. He examines the influences of playwrights like Bertolt Brecht and William Shakespeare on Kushner's style, shedding light on the way in which Kushner combines realism, social commentary, and poetic language to create his distinctive theatrical voice.

Moreover, Bloom provides valuable insights into the political and social context in which Kushner's plays were created. He explores how Kushner fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects such as homosexuality, race, and America's place in the world, highlighting the playwright's thought-provoking approach.

Overall, "Tony Kushner" is an engaging and illuminating read for both theater enthusiasts and those interested in understanding the cultural and political significance of contemporary drama. Bloom's scholarly analysis and deep appreciation for Kushner's work make this book a must-read for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the celebrated playwright's artistic contributions.

What are readers saying?

Harold Bloom's book on Tony Kushner has received a range of reviews from readers. Some readers appreciate the book for its insightful analysis of Kushner's work and its exploration of significant themes. They find it to be a valuable resource that enhances their understanding of the playwright's plays, particularly in terms of religious, identity, and political themes. Bloom's extensive knowledge of literature and his ability to connect Kushner's work to broader literary traditions are also praised.

However, there are also critics who have reservations about the book. Some readers find Bloom's writing style to be dense and academic, making it challenging for those unfamiliar with literary criticism to engage with the material fully. The book's frequent use of literary jargon and references to obscure works is seen as a deterrent, especially for readers who do not have a strong background in literary analysis. Additionally, some reviewers note that the book lacks a clear narrative structure, which leads to a disjointed reading experience.

In spite of these criticisms, many readers recognize the value of Bloom's book as a guide to Kushner's work. They appreciate its comprehensive analysis of the playwright's major works, including "Angels in America," and consider it a valuable resource for both students and scholars of literature and theater.

In summary, Harold Bloom's book on Tony Kushner has received mixed reviews from readers. While it is commended for its insightful analysis and exploration of important themes, some readers find its dense and academic style to be a barrier to understanding. Nevertheless, the book offers valuable insights into Kushner's work and serves as a useful resource for those interested in studying it further, though its scholarly approach may not be accessible to all readers.