《Wise Blood》New Essays

Author: Cleanth Brooks
Publisher:
Publication Date: 2007-01-01
Features: This book collects reviews of Flannery O'Connor's first novel, "Wise Blood." It not only questions our understanding of "Southern Gothic" but also presents a fresh exploration of the nature and history of O'Connor's reputation in the critical world. The opening section features Michael Cleanth Brooks discussing the nature and history of O'Connor's literary reputation, citing her own letters and works, as well as various reviews and articles that cover her history as a revered figure. The following four essays adopt four entirely different and controversial perspectives. Robert Brinkemaier, who previously wrote about O'Connor from a traditional theological angle, now contributes an article reassessing her. Patricia Yaeger's feminist/psychoanalytic essay explores the construction of the narrative voice in "Wise Blood." James Meleady links O'Connor to Lacan, delving into the field of psychology and psychoanalysis—territory O'Connor herself found dangerous but irresistible. Finally, Lance Bacon wrote the most groundbreaking essay to date in his work, considering the issue from the perspective of American popular culture of O'Connor's time.