Opting out
Subtitle: deviance and generational identities in American post-war cult fiction
By: Ana Sobral
Series: Costerus -- new ser.,197; Costerus -- new ser., v.197.
Publisher: Rodopi; Brand: Rodopi
Published: 2012
Place of publication: Amsterdam; New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 275
ISBN-13: 9789042035768
Subjects: American literature; History and criticism; Conflict of generations; Baby boom generation; Generation X
Other titles: Deviance and generational identities in American post-war cult fiction
Description: "Opting Out explores the theme of deviance as a form of protest in famous cult novels that have left an indelible mark on contemporary American culture - from Jack Kerouac's On the Road to Chuck Palahniuk's Fight Club. Adopting a generational lens, it centers on the deviant heroes and literary spokesmen of two major cohorts: the Baby Boomers and Generation X. Here for the first time the cult texts that defined these generations are submitted to a critical analysis that allows them to enter into a dialogue - or rather a heated debate - with each other. This opens new perspectives on the generation gap in America since 1945, offering a dynamic look at the role of youth as agents of social change and cultural innovation. The volume is of interest to students and researchers in contemporary American literature and culture, as well as to fans of cult fiction in general. The interdisciplinary approach to the themes of generational conflict and deviant behaviour also makes a significant contribution to the fields of sociology, contemporary history and cultural studies."--Publisher's website.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. [261]-269) and index.