The Art, Literature and Music of Solitude - (Bloomsbury Solitude Studies) by Julian Stern

About the Book

"This book presents a thematic analysis of various aspects of solitude, silence and loneliness, from the ancient world to the present day, explored thematically with consideration to the links between aloneness to other social and political issues. The themes include exile (expulsion from a community), ecstasy (getting 'out of oneself') and enstasy (being comfortable within oneself), to the Romantic idea of the artist as solitary. The book explores modernism and postmodernism as presenting new forms of solitude in the twentieth century, and how, more recently, there have been attempts to 'recover' the self, through therapeutic uses of the arts. All of these types and experiences of aloneness are described through the lenses of artistic, literary and musical forms of expression, as aloneness is not only explored and articulated through these art forms, but is in many ways created through these art forms" -- page [4] of cover.

Book Synopsis

This book presents a thematic analysis of various aspects of solitude, silence and loneliness, from the ancient world to the present day, explored thematically with consideration to the links between aloneness to other social and political issues.The themes include exile (expulsion from a community), ecstasy (getting 'out of oneself') and enstasy (being comfortable within oneself), to the Romantic idea of the artist as solitary. There is work on aloneness in and through nature, especially the importance of natural settings for positive experiences of solitude. A central theme is alienation and its emotions, with the idea of loneliness and the rejected self being a more modern experience. The book explores modernism and postmodernism as presenting new forms of solitude in the twentieth century, and how, more recently, there have been attempts to 'recover' the self, through therapeutic uses of the arts. All of these types and experiences of aloneness are described through the lenses of artistic, literary and musical forms of expression, as aloneness is not only explored and articulated through these art forms, but is in many ways createdthrough these art forms.

Review Quotes

Julian Stern is a leading author, editor, and the most forceful driver on a very original interdisciplinary therapeutic approach in addressing the current ravages of our global pandemic of human loneliness. He is the foremost scholar in this refreshing new field as he marshals an international group of authorities breaking fresh new ground on the dynamics of silence, solitude, and loneliness.

The author masterfully intertwines solitude and loneliness through art, philosophy and psychology, unveiling powers of introspection and silence. This must-read book offers a profound insight into the depths of creative minds, highlighting connections between solitary, contemplation and artistic brilliance. An enriching captivating exploration that resonates long after the last page.

This is a personal account of the art of solitude, based on a slow history of the author's solitary experiences of reading, watching and listening. Sacred texts of many religious and secular traditions, the aesthetic lessons of fine arts, music and its haunting silences are here explored with tenderness and gratitude. A most rewarding read.

About the Author

Julian Stern is Professor of Education and Religion at Bishop Grosseteste University, UK. He is President of ISRS: the International Society for Research on Solitude.