The narrative explores the emotional journey of its protagonist as he grapples with the disintegration of his relationship and his mental state. Through this introspective lens, the story seeks to address the profound questions posed by Abraham Lincoln in his inaugural address, weaving themes of love, loss, and self-discovery into a poignant reflection on personal and historical turmoil.
American cultural history is shaped by pivotal moments where definitions and meanings clash, leading to new understandings and syntheses. These shifts do not necessarily indicate progress but reflect the complexities of evolving realities influenced by language and situational contexts. The interplay of these elements creates a dynamic cultural landscape, resulting in varied interpretations and experiences that depend on individual perspectives and beliefs.
The Scott Newspaper Syndicate in the Generation Before the Civil Rights Movement
Set in the summer of 1928, the narrative follows William Alexander Scott and his brother Cornelius as they launch a modest four-page weekly newspaper. By 1930, the Atlanta World evolves into a semiweekly publication, and Scott's ambition grows, leading to the establishment of the Southern Newspaper Syndicate. By April 1931, the World transforms into a triweekly, expanding its influence beyond the Southern region, showcasing Scott's vision for a significant newspaper chain rooted in Atlanta.
Exploring the life of a complex figure, this biography delves into Louis Lomax's journey from his Deep South childhood to becoming a prominent voice in the civil rights movement. Thomas Aiello highlights Lomax's contradictions as a journalist, provocateur, and ally to civil rights leaders like Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. By examining Lomax's belief in "the art of deliberate disunity," the book reflects the tumultuous landscape of 1960s America, offering an engaging and comprehensive study of an often-overlooked yet significant personality.
In the late sixties, a rogue psychiatrist created a gated community of mental patients called Yesterday, utilizing some revolutionary mental health techniques. When Orson Littlefield is sent to the Yesterday mental facility, he is introduced to a new medication that makes his delusions come to life. His next door neighbor, who is actually just another part of his delusion, becomes enraged when Orson kicks yet another figment of his imagination into her yard. She then promptly murders him with a nuclear warhead. Meanwhile, the antichrist, a Louisiana bunny rabbit, rises to power and seduces the world. One testament later, a high school football star takes on the persona of savior for a sports starved small town. His life is naturally replete with miracles, disciples, a donkey, and plenty of sex. Interspersed throughout are the authors own attempts to come to terms with the fact that all the characters in his story are just figments of his imagination. Newspapers come to life, girlfriends evaporate, and various characters throughout are stricken with stigmata. A social commentary, religious satire, and absurdist comedy that examines the fine line between imagination and come look inside the womb of monsters.
"From its nineteenth-century roots to its position today as a global symbol of American culture, basketball has been a force in American society. This book presents the first cultural history of the sport from the street to the highest levels of professional men's and women's competition, chronicling the relationship between the sport and American society"--
Set against the backdrop of Carbondale, Arkansas, this novel intertwines humor and sorrow in a tale about a mysterious outbreak of pancreatic cancer. The narrative explores the town's eccentric characters, including quirky locals and street ministers, as they navigate love, loss, and addiction. With a unique blend of Southern charm and absurdity, the story captures the struggle against a devastating illness while addressing themes of resilience and community. The vivid imagery and rich characterizations create a compelling portrait of life amidst chaos.
This philosophical defense of veganism argues for the ethical treatment of farmed animals within a society dominated by artificial constructs. It emphasizes the importance of respecting the right to life and well-being of nonhuman animals, advocating for their access to adequate food, space, and basic care. The book challenges the notion that human whims justify the torture and killing of animals, highlighting the need for a broader ethical framework that includes all sentient beings.
Money, Matricide, and Marginal Fiction in the Early Twentieth Century
The narrative centers on Gordon Malherbe Hillman, a once-promising author whose life spiraled into tragedy and violence. On May 7, 1950, he murdered his semi-invalid mother in their Boston hotel room, driven by financial ruin and impending eviction. Thomas Aiello explores Hillman's life, highlighting his brief literary successes and the struggles of many authors during the Great Depression. The book intertwines a true crime story with an examination of the publishing industry's pressures, featuring eight of Hillman's short stories to enrich the context of his decline.
The Brooks-Lowndes Race Riot of 1918 in History and Memory
Focusing on a notorious lynching in American history, this book offers a fresh perspective that delves into the social and racial dynamics of the time. It examines the events leading up to the lynching, the individuals involved, and the broader implications for society. Through meticulous research and narrative storytelling, the author sheds light on the complexities surrounding justice and morality, prompting readers to reflect on the legacy of racial violence and its impact on contemporary issues.