PAŃSTWOWY INSTYTUT WYDAWNICZY - REVENGE OF THE IMAGINATION: SURREALISM, AVANT-GARDE AND CONTEMPORARY IMAGINATION

The book "Revenge of the Imagination" is a fascinating journey through the world of surrealism, avant-garde, and contemporary imagination, published by Państwowy Instytut Wydawniczy. The author analyzes the legacy of surrealism on the centenary of the publication of the Surrealist Manifesto, exploring its influence on literature and art. It is a must-read for lovers of aesthetic theory and the history of the avant-garde.

• Analysis of the legacy of surrealism in the context of contemporary culture.
• Exploration of aesthetic theory oriented around the category of imagination.
• Reflections on the avant-garde practice of exploring the subconscious and dreams.
• Sketches of writers setting in motion the work of unbridled imagination.
• Inspirations from the Dictionary of Imaginary Places by Alberto Manguel.
• Reflections on various forms of modern utopia and dystopia.
• Problems of nuclear culture and late modern catastrophism.

In the first part of the book, we find sketches of writers who, although loosely associated with surrealism, followed their own path, creating unique aesthetic proposals. The author analyzes the works of Michel Leiris, Leonora Carrington, Henri Michaux, Roland Topor, Georges Perec, Albert Camus, and Eugène Ionesco. He also looks at authors from the turn of the century who use imagination for critical work on madness, consumption, and new forms of spirituality, such as David Vann, Marie Darrieussecq, and Emmanuel Carrere.

The second part of the book is a discussion of imaginary journeys and non-existent lands, inspired by Alberto Manguel's Dictionary of Imaginary Places. The author considers various forms of modern utopia and dystopia, analyzing the works of Herbert George Wells, George Orwell, Stanisław Lem, and Margaret Atwood. A special place is given to the problems of nuclear culture and late modern catastrophism, as well as post-apocalyptic visions of the end of the world, which are updated in an amazing way in the form of Serhij Żadan's contemporary war novel.

Państwowy Instytut Wydawniczy (PIW) is a renowned publishing house with a rich tradition, specializing in the publication of fiction, essays, and scientific works. PIW has been promoting Polish culture and literature for years, publishing works by classics and contemporary artists. PIW books are characterized by high editorial quality and careful selection of content, which makes them appreciated by readers and critics alike.

"Revenge of the Imagination" is a book that provokes thought and encourages reflection on the role of imagination in our lives. The author analyzes how imagination influences our perception of the world, our relationships with other people, and our aspirations. It is a read for everyone who wants to better understand themselves and the reality around us. This book is a valuable source of knowledge for students, researchers, and anyone interested in the history of literature and art.

This book is ideal for people interested in literary history, avant-garde art, and philosophy. It is a must-read for students of humanities, cultural researchers, and anyone who wants to expand their knowledge of surrealism and its influence on contemporary imagination. "Revenge of the Imagination" is a read that will surely inspire further research and discoveries in the world of literature and art.