Joseph Epstein Knihy

Tento výbor z esejů Josepha Epsteina – představující ovšem jen zlomek z jeho rozsáhlé tvorby – je veden snahou ukázat šíři a pestrost autorových zájmů. Čtenář v něm nalezne tři základní tematické okruhy. První se vytvářel v závislosti na Epsteinově povolání univerzitního učitele literatury. Jeho znalosti i přehled zejména americké literární produkce staršího i novějšího data jsou famózní. Epstein nám ukazuje, do jaké hloubky lze číst a přemýšlet o přečteném. Druhý je utvořen z jeho celoživotní snahy pochopit řeckou a římskou literární a kulturní tradici včetně latiny. To dokládají nejen rozbory děl autorů jako Hérodotos a Tacitus, ale i Epsteinova touha o proniknutí do tajů latinského jazyka. Třetí okruh je založen na jeho zájmu o věci veřejné. Epstein je „ze staré školy“ a nehodlá se přizpůsobovat módním trendům, například politické korektnosti a cancel kultuře. Je však zapotřebí dodat, že jeho politická nekorektnost je chytrá, kultivovaná a vtipná. Vtip ostatně netvoří v Epsteinově díle nějaký ornament, je bytostnou součástí jeho uvažování i psaní. Tento humor svou kreativitou připomene českému čtenáři jiného brilantního anglicky píšícího esejisty – G. K. Chestertona.

Once More Around The Familiar Essays by Epstein, Joseph

Exploring the lives of ordinary Jewish men in Chicago, this collection features fourteen stories that blend bittersweet humor with poignant reflections on defining life moments. Epstein's characters navigate complex love affairs, unspoken rivalries, and family dynamics, all infused with a rich, revealing detail that resonates universally. Renowned for his comedic timing, Epstein brings wit and charm to his mature characters, making this collection a standout work from a master storyteller in contemporary American literature.

Through sixteen engaging essays, the author explores a variety of topics including name-dropping, the distinction between talent and genius, the obsession with youth, and the impact of the information revolution. With his characteristic wit and charm, Epstein crafts each piece into a delightful commentary that invites readers to reflect on contemporary culture and society.

Focusing on the profound insights of Alexis de Tocqueville, this book offers a contemporary analysis of his observations during his travels in America. Joseph Epstein, a renowned literary historian, revisits de Tocqueville's legacy, drawing parallels between his findings and the present-day American landscape. The work not only highlights de Tocqueville's cultural observations but also invites reflection on how his insights resonate with today's societal dynamics.

Exploring the lives and works of nineteen significant writers, this collection showcases Epstein's nuanced critiques and appreciations without the burden of ideological bias. He examines figures such as Montaigne, Fitzgerald, and Solzhenitsyn, revealing his deep interest in literary excellence. Each essay reflects his well-honed perspective, offering insights that balance admiration and critique, all delivered with the grace and ease characteristic of his writing style. Ultimately, the collection highlights the art of literary analysis through Epstein's discerning lens.

The estimable Joseph Epstein--essayist, past editor of The American Scholar, and recipient of the 2003 National Humanities Medal along with Hal Holbrook and John Updike--brings together twenty short stories in his first such collection since 2010. Most, though not all, of the stories are set in Epstein's hometown of Chicago, but otherwise they have a variety of subjects: among the titles are "Dad's Gay," "The Casanova of LaSalle Street," "JDate," "Adultery," "Widow's Pique," "Race Relations," "The Man on Whom Everything Was Lost," "My Five Husbands," and "Second Family." Most are stories about family and friendships.

From America's call for a free press to its embrace of the capitalist system, Democracy in America--first published in 1835--enlightens, entertains, and endures as a brilliant study of our national government and character. Philosopher John Stuart Mill called it "among the most remarkable productions of our time." Woodrow Wilson wrote that de Tocqueville's ability to illuminate the actual workings of American democracy was "possibly without rival." For today's readers, de Tocqueville's concern about the effect of majority rule on the rights of individuals remains deeply meaningful. His shrewd observations about the "almost royal prerogatives" of the president and the need for virtue in elected officials are particularly prophetic. His profound insights into the great rewards and responsibilities of democratic government are words every American needs to read, contemplate, and remember. From America's call for a free press to its embrace of the capitalist system Democracy in America enlightens, entertains, and endures as a brilliant study of our national government and character. De Toqueville's concern about the effect of majority rule on the rights of individuals remains deeply meaningful. His insights into the great rewards and responsibilities of democratic government are words every American needs to read, contemplate, and remember.

Essays by Jean Ervin, Jacob Cohen, Ward Just, Floyd Skloot, Gerald Early, James Salter, Philip Weiss, Cynthia Ozick, Diane Johnson, Joseph Brodsky, Marcia Aldrich, Paul R. McHugh, Anthony Burgess, Daniel M. Harris, Robert Sherrill, Shaun O'Connell, Thomas C. Palmer, Lawrence Otis Graham, Scott Russell Sanders, and Barbara Grizzuti Harrison.

With a blend of humor and insight, Joseph Epstein presents a diverse collection of essays that explore literary figures from Paul Valéry to Truman Capote, while also critiquing prominent cultural critics like Harold Bloom and George Steiner. His writing reflects personal anecdotes, including touching memories of his father and experiences as an educator. This adventurous compilation showcases Epstein's talent as a memoirist and polemicist, inviting readers to engage with contemporary culture through his sharp observations and thoughtful reflections.