Tribute to Freud: Writing on the Wall and Advent (New Directions Paperbook) : Book Review

"Tribute to Freud" by H.D., also known as Hilda Doolittle, is a captivating exploration of the life and teachings of Sigmund Freud. As an author who deeply admires the renowned psychoanalyst, H.D. offers an intimate and thought-provoking tribute that not only delves into Freud's theories and philosophies but also provides her own unique insights.

The book is skillfully divided into three sections, each focusing on a different aspect of Freud's life. In the first section, aptly titled "Childhood," H.D. enlightens readers with a glimpse into Freud's early years and the challenges he faced as a young boy. By shining a light on his determination and willpower, H.D. showcases the transformative experiences that shaped Freud's groundbreaking theories.

Moving onto the second section, "The Family," H.D. takes a deep dive into Freud's personal life and relationships. Through her sympathetic portrayal, she explores the intricate dynamics within Freud's family and emphasizes how they influenced his work. This section humanizes Freud, a figure often perceived as distant and unapproachable, by presenting him as a loving husband, father, and intellectual.

The final section, "Therapy and Theory," is where H.D. examines Freud's revolutionary ideas and explores their lasting impact on the field of psychology. By delving into his theories on dreams, sexuality, and the unconscious mind, H.D. sheds new light on their historical significance and enduring relevance.

H.D.'s writing throughout "Tribute to Freud" is eloquent and engaging, capturing the essence of Freud's work while infusing it with her own unique perspective. This book serves as a personal and accessible exploration of the man behind the theories, presenting readers with a celebration of Freud's lasting influence on the field of psychology.

What are readers saying?

"H.D.'s Tribute to Freud" has received a variety of reviews from readers. While some readers praised the book for its exploration of Sigmund Freud's theories and its lyrical writing style, others found it difficult to follow and overly academic.

Many readers enjoyed H.D.'s in-depth analysis of Freud's work and the incorporation of her own experiences into the book. They found her interpretations of Freud's theories insightful and thought-provoking, offering a fresh perspective on psychoanalysis. The poetic language and vivid descriptions used throughout the book were also highly praised for their beauty.

However, some readers found "Tribute to Freud" to be dense and scholarly. They struggled with the academic language and complex discussions, finding it hard to engage with the material. Additionally, a few reviewers felt that the book lacked a clear structure or flow, making it seem disjointed at times.

Another criticism was the excessive focus on H.D.'s personal experiences and her relationship with Freud. Some readers felt that this made the book more like a memoir than a true exploration of Freud's theories, and they desired a more balanced approach.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still found value in "Tribute to Freud" and recommended it to those interested in psychoanalysis or H.D.'s work. They appreciated the book's depth of research and unique perspective on Freud's theories.

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