Why people recommend it
Less Than One by Joseph Brodsky is a critically acclaimed collection of essays written by the exiled Russian poet and Nobel laureate, offering profound reflections on literature, politics, exile, and the human condition. On The Ezra Klein Show, Jane Hirschfield recommended the essay collection as part of her literary suggestions during a thoughtful conversation about the art of noticing and appreciating the dizzying world around us. Hirschfield specifically drew attention to a lengthy and memorable chapter within the book, which features a meticulous, brilliant close reading of W. H. Auden's famous poem September 1st, 1939. By highlighting Brodsky's deep analytical engagement with Auden's verse, Hirschfield illustrated the profound ways in which great writers can unpack the emotional and historical weight of turbulent eras. The recommendation reflected the book's status as a masterclass in literary criticism and reflective essay writing by one of the twentieth century's most distinctive and celebrated literary voices.
Who recommended it
- Jane Hirschfield Recommended
Jane Hirschfield — 1 mention
“so the Russian poet Joseph Brodsky has a book of essays less than one and one long chapter in that essay is a close reading of the poem September 1st 1939 by Auden”