Wendy's review
Cultural Amnesia: Necessary Memories from History and the Arts by Clive James
I've only just started reading, and though I've given it 4 stars, I think I'll end up giving it 5. I'm a lazy reader and often read books which are just fodder, so I'm startled when I come across really excellent writing. And James can put words together.
The book ambles somewhat, but it's as he says - imagine a cafe full of interesting people having conversations about all sorts of stuff.
There's a certain snob opposition to Clive James, as though he thinks he's just so damned clever. He can appear that way on TV, but he's just a person who has read a lot, I mean a lot, in various languages, and who knows that there is a great deal he doesn't know.
I note that in my copy of the book the title is "Cultural Amnesia. Notes in the Margin of my Time." It's pub by Picador.
The book ambles somewhat, but it's as he says - imagine a cafe full of interesting people having conversations about all sorts of stuff.
There's a certain snob opposition to Clive James, as though he thinks he's just so damned clever. He can appear that way on TV, but he's just a person who has read a lot, I mean a lot, in various languages, and who knows that there is a great deal he doesn't know.
I note that in my copy of the book the title is "Cultural Amnesia. Notes in the Margin of my Time." It's pub by Picador.
you make me want to read this one, wendy. thanks for the review!
I don't expect to read it all in one go - it's a marvellous 'dipping' book. If I were still studying I would allow myself an essay after a couple of hours hard work, a reward. Maybe 2 essays after completing a whole assignment.
