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Close to the Knives

A Memoir of Disintegration
By David Wojnarowicz
Series: Canons
0.0 (0 reviews)
4.48 goodreads logo

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Check link for latest rating. ( 4,336 ratings, 537 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Close to the Knives by David Wojnarowicz is a raw and compelling memoir that delves into the author’s life as an artist and gay activist in New York City during the 1980s. Through a collection of personal essays, Wojnarowicz explores his experiences with societal marginalisation, the AIDS crisis, and his fight against cultural and political oppression. This powerful narrative weaves together a critique of American culture with deeply personal reflections, offering a poignant glimpse into the life and thoughts of a bold and defiant voice.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you are drawn to raw, powerful narratives exploring themes of art, politics, and identity during the AIDS crisis. David Wojnarowicz's memoir offers an unflinching look at societal injustices and personal reflections, capturing the fierce and poignant voice of a visionary artist.

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The powerful, personal and iconoclastic memoir of David Wojnarowicz, AIDs activist, author and one of the most provocative artists of his generation. With a new introduction by Olivia Laing.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

From the author's violent childhood in suburbia to eventual homelessness on the streets and piers of New York City, to recognition as one of the most provocative artists of his generation - Close to the Knives is his powerful and iconoclastic memoir.

Street life, drugs, art and nature, family, AIDS, politics, friendship and acceptance: Wojnarowicz challenges us to examine our lives - politically, socially, emotionally, and aesthetically.

Series: Canons

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Close to the Knives by David Wojnarowicz receives acclaim for its raw and impassioned narrative style, capturing voices of marginalised and outcast individuals. Critics praise its emotional intensity and insightful commentary on societal issues, highlighting its relevance in challenging oppression and its impact on understanding broader political contexts. The book is described as a necessary read for its fearless honesty and ability to provoke thought and empathy.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781786890276

Publisher: Canongate Books

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 02 March 2017

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Canongate Canons

Edition: Main - Canons edition

Contributors:

  • Introduction by Olivia Laing

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 17.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 224g

Pages: 304

Collections

Arts & Culture Biography & Memoir David Wojnarowicz Non-Fiction Series: Canons

About the Author

David Wojnarowicz authored five books. His artwork is in numerous private and public collections, including the Museum of Modern Art and Whitney Museum of American Art, New York; Los Angeles County Museum of Art; and the National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa, among other institutions. In addition to his artwork, Wojnarowicz attained national prominence as a writer and advocate for AIDS awareness, and for his stance against censorship. He died from AIDS in 1992.

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