Arresting Language: From Leibniz to Benjamin

“Eight unique essays . . . recommended for lage academic or specialized collections.”—Library Journal

Concentrating on both widely known and seldom-read texts from a variety of philosophers, writers, and critics—from Leibniz and Mendelssohn, through Kleist and Hebel, to Benjamin and Irigaray—the book analyzes the genesis and structure of interruption, a topic of growing interest to contemporary literary studies, continental philosophy, legal studies, and theological reflection.

Library Journal

Language is so complex that it can inhibit or even stop the process of communication, according to Fenves (German and comparative literary studies, Northwestern Univ.). He demonstrates this idea in eight unique essays examining the writings of a variety of philosophers and literary figures, chiefly from Germany. Regarding clear communication and the idea of divine revelation in language, Fenves dissects the complex views of Leibniz and Mendelssohn. In addition, through the writings of Johann Peter Hegel, Heinrich von Kleist, Walter Benjamin, and Luce Irigaray, he presents intriguing examples of plot and dialog, such as perceiving a rainbow's colors or issuing an illegal police warrant. Five of the eight essays are revisions of works previously published. While they address related questions, the essays do not directly build upon one another. As a result, readers may be intrigued but feel that the inquiry lacks focus. Because Fenves incorporates many German words and philosophical terms into a dense writing style, his work is most accessible to philosophy graduate students and scholars. Recommended only for large academic or specialized collections. Marianne Orme, Des Plaines P.L., IL Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.

Peter Fenves is Professor of German and Comparative Literary Studies and Adjunct Professor of Philosophy and Political Science at Northwestern University. Among his books is “Chatter”: Language and History in Kierkegaard (Stanford, 1993).