Title
The Most Dangerous Book: The Battle for James Joyces Ulysses,Used
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"A great storyhow modernism brought down the regime of censorshiptold as a great story. Kevin Birminghams imaginative scholarship brings Joyce and his world to life. There is a fresh detail on nearly every page."Louis Menand, Pulitzer prizewinning author of The Metaphysical ClubFor more than a decade, the book that literary critics now consider the most important novel in the English language was illegal to own, sell, advertise or purchase in most of the Englishspeaking world. James Joyce? big blue book, Ulysses, ushered in the modernist era and changed the novel for all time. But the genius of Ulysses was also its danger: it omitted absolutely nothing. All of the minutiae of Leopold Bloom? day, including its unspeakable details, unfold with careful precision in its pages. The New York Society for the Suppression of Vice immediately banned the novel as ?bscene, lewd, and lascivious.?Joyce, along with some of the most important publishers and writers of his era, had to fight for years to win the freedom to publish it. The Most Dangerous Book tells the remarkable story surrounding Ulysses, from the first stirrings of Joyce? inspiration in 1904 to its landmark federal obscenity trial in 1933.Literary historian Kevin Birmingham follows Joyce? years as a young writer, his feverish work on his literary masterpiece, and his ardent love affair with Nora Barnacle, the model for Molly Bloom. Joyce and Nora socialized with literary greats like Ezra Pound, Ernest Hemingway, T. S. Eliot and Sylvia Beach. Their support helped Joyce fight an array of antivice crusaders while his book was disguised and smuggled, pirated and burned in the United States and Britain. The long struggle for publication added to the growing pressures of Joyce? deteriorating eyesight, finances and home life.Salvation finally came from the partnership of Bennett Cerf, the cofounder of Random House, and Morris Ernst, a dogged civil liberties lawyer. With their stewardship, the case ultimately rested on the literary merit of Joyce? master work. The sixtyyearold judicial practices governing obscenity in the United States were overturned because a federal judge could get inside Molly Bloom? head.Birmingham? archival work brings to light new information about both Joyce and the story surrounding Ulysses. Written for ardent Joyceans as well as novices who want to get to the heart of the greatest novel of the twentieth century, The Most Dangerous Book is a gripping examination of how the world came to say yes to Ulysses.
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- Q: How many pages are in 'The Most Dangerous Book'? A: This book has four hundred thirty-two pages. It provides an in-depth look into the importance of James Joyce's 'Ulysses'.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The book is a hardcover edition. This binding offers durability and a premium feel for readers.
- Q: What are the dimensions of 'The Most Dangerous Book'? A: The book measures six and a half inches in length, one point four two inches in width, and nine and a half inches in height. These dimensions make it a convenient size for reading.
- Q: Who is the author of 'The Most Dangerous Book'? A: The author is Kevin Birmingham. He is known for his literary scholarship and engaging storytelling.
- Q: What genre does 'The Most Dangerous Book' belong to? A: This book falls under the non-fiction genre. It explores literary history and the impact of James Joyce's work.
- Q: What age group is 'The Most Dangerous Book' suitable for? A: This book is suitable for adults and older teens. It discusses complex themes and historical events related to censorship.
- Q: How should I care for my hardcover copy of this book? A: Keep the book in a dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve the pages and cover in good condition.
- Q: Is 'The Most Dangerous Book' safe for younger readers? A: No, this book contains mature themes and discussions about censorship. It is better suited for an adult audience.
- Q: Can I read this book as a beginner in literary studies? A: Yes, this book is accessible for beginners. It provides context and background, making it easier to understand Joyce's significance.
- Q: What should I do if my book arrives damaged? A: Contact the retailer for a return or exchange. Most sellers have policies in place for damaged items.
- Q: Does this book come with a warranty? A: No, books typically do not come with warranties. However, check with the retailer for their return policy.
- Q: How can I store my book to prevent damage? A: Store the book upright on a shelf or in a bookcase. Avoid stacking other items on top to keep it safe.
- Q: What makes 'The Most Dangerous Book' a good choice for literary enthusiasts? A: The book provides a deep dive into the history and impact of 'Ulysses.' It's filled with rich details that appeal to literary enthusiasts.
- Q: Is there an index or bibliography included in the book? A: Yes, the book includes a bibliography, which provides sources for further reading and research on James Joyce.
- Q: How does this book compare to other literary biographies? A: This book offers a unique focus on censorship and the fight for literary freedom, setting it apart from other biographies.
- Q: What if I have questions about the content of the book? A: Consider joining a book club or online discussion group focused on literary studies. This can provide additional insights and answers.