Title
Nancy Cunard: Heiress, Muse, Political Idealist
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Lois Gordon's absorbing biography tells the story of a writer, activist, and cultural icon who embodied the dazzling energy and tumultuous spirit of her age, and whom William Carlos Williams once called 'one of the major phenomena of history.'Nancy Cunard (18961965) led a life that surpasses Hollywood fantasy. The only child of an English baronet (and heir to the Cunard shipping fortune) and an American beauty, Cunard abandoned the world of a celebrated socialite and Jazz Age icon to pursue a lifelong battle against social injustice as a wartime journalist, humanitarian aid worker, and civil rights champion.Cunard fought fascism on the battlefields of Spain and reported firsthand on the atrocities of the French concentration camps. Intelligent and beautiful, she romanced the great writers of her era, including three Nobel Prize winners, and was the inspiration for characters in the works of Ezra Pound, T. S. Eliot, Aldous Huxley, Pablo Neruda, Samuel Beckett, and Ernest Hemingway, among others.Cunard was also a prolific poet, publisher, and translator and, after falling in love with a black American jazz pianist, became deeply committed to fighting for black rights. She edited the controversial anthology Negro, the first comprehensive study of the achievement and plight of blacks around the world. Her contributors included Langston Hughes, W. E. B. Du Bois, and Zora Neale Hurston, among scores of others.Cunard's personal life was as complex as her public persona. Her involvement with the civil rights movement led her to be ridiculed and rejected by both family and friends. Throughout her life, she was plagued by insecurities and suffered a series of breakdowns, struggling with a sense of guilt over her promiscuous behavior and her ability to survive so much war and tragedy. Yet Cunard's writings also reveal an immense kindness and wit, as well as her renowned, often flamboyant defiance of prejudiced social conventions.Drawing on diaries, correspondence, historical accounts, and the remembrances of others, Lois Gordon revisits the major movements of the first half of the twentieth century through the life of a truly gifted and extraordinary woman. She also returns Nancy Cunard to her rightful place as a major figure in the historical, social, and artistic events of a critical era.
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- Q: What is the page count of 'Nancy Cunard: Heiress, Muse, Political Idealist'? A: This book contains five hundred four pages. It offers an in-depth biography of Nancy Cunard's remarkable life.
- Q: What are the dimensions of this book? A: The dimensions are six and a half inches in length, one point four two inches in width, and nine point four nine inches in height. These dimensions make it a suitable size for reading.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book is bound in hardcover. This ensures durability and protection for the pages inside.
- Q: Who is the author of this biography? A: The author is Lois Gordon. She provides a compelling narrative of Nancy Cunard's life and impact on society.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: This book belongs to the biography genre. It specifically focuses on social activists and historical figures.
- Q: How do I read 'Nancy Cunard: Heiress, Muse, Political Idealist'? A: You can read this book by simply opening it and turning the pages. It can be enjoyed by anyone interested in history or activism.
- Q: Is this book suitable for young adults? A: Yes, this book is suitable for young adults. It covers themes of social justice and historical activism that resonate with a younger audience.
- Q: What themes are explored in this book? A: The book explores themes of social justice, activism, and cultural history. It delves into Nancy Cunard's contributions to these areas.
- Q: Can this book be used for academic research? A: Yes, this book can be used for academic research. It offers historical insights and analyses that are valuable for studies in social activism.
- Q: How should I care for this hardcover book? A: To care for this book, store it upright on a shelf and avoid exposing it to moisture. This will help maintain its condition.
- Q: What is the recommended method for cleaning this book? A: The recommended method for cleaning is to gently dust the cover with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions.
- Q: Is this book safe to handle for all ages? A: Yes, this book is safe to handle for all ages. There are no hazardous materials involved in its production.
- Q: What if my copy arrives damaged? A: If your copy arrives damaged, you can contact customer support for a replacement or refund. They typically have a clear return policy.
- Q: Are there any similar books to 'Nancy Cunard: Heiress, Muse, Political Idealist'? A: Yes, similar books include biographies of other social activists. Titles focusing on figures like W. E. B. Du Bois may be of interest.
- Q: What should I do if I want to gift this book? A: If you want to gift this book, consider wrapping it nicely and including a personalized note. It makes a thoughtful gift for readers interested in history.