Against Interpretation and Other Essays

Against Interpretation and Other Essays is a landmark collection that showcases the formidable intellect and insightful critique of Susan Sontag. Originally published in 1966, this collection has never gone out of print and continues to resonate with readers around the world due to its timeless exploration of art, culture, and thought. As Sontag's first collection of essays, it firmly established her as one of the most influential cultural critics of her generation, offering a series of provocative discussions that span a broad array of subjects, from individual authors to the nuances of contemporary religious thinking.

The collection includes some of Sontag's most renowned and influential essays. In 'On Style', she explores the complex relationship between content and form in art, arguing that style is not a decorative addition but an intrinsic part of a work's substance. 'Notes on "Camp"' is a seminal piece that dissects the concept of "camp" sensibility, which Sontag describes as a mode of aestheticism characterised by a love for the exaggerated, the "off," and of things being what they are not.

In the titular essay, Against Interpretation, Sontag puts forward a compelling argument against the reductive practice of interpreting art solely through symbolic meanings, advocating instead for a more immediate and sensuous appreciation of the experience art provides. She critiques the prevalent modern critical approaches that overshadow the visceral connection with artworks, urging readers to embrace what she calls an "erotics of art". This essay is particularly notable for its bold perspective and has been a subject of extensive discussion and analysis.

Throughout the collection, Sontag demonstrates her keen ability to engage with cultural phenomena deeply and thoughtfully, making connections that reveal the underlying intricacies of the subjects she examines. Her prose is not only intellectually rigorous but also accessible, making complex ideas comprehensible without diluting their significance. She moves effortlessly between discussions on literature, film, philosophy, and politics, providing fresh perspectives that challenge conventional thinking.

Against Interpretation and Other Essays remains an essential read, offering insights that are as relevant today as when they were first penned. Sontag's essays serve as a clarion call for a deeper engagement with art and culture, encouraging readers to look beyond surface interpretations and to appreciate the multifaceted experiences that art can provide.