Rachel Kushner teaches a class at Stanford focused on utilizing various cultural inspirations in creative writing. Her novels, including 'Creation Lake,' reflect her methodology of drawing from diverse sources. She included 'Miss Lonelyhearts' by Nathanael West, which humorously critiques societal issues during the Great Depression, illustrating significant historical changes. 'The Recognitions' by William Gaddis was also part of her syllabus, addressing deep themes like Christianity and authenticity, showing the complexity of modern literature. Kushner aims for students to see the value in these narratives and apply similar techniques in their writing.
The novel 'Miss Lonelyhearts' effectively uses black comedy to explore societal changes in a grave historical period, particularly during the economic devastation of the Great Depression.
'The Recognitions' by William Gaddis addresses themes of Christianity, belief, authenticity, and fraudulence, offering profound insights despite its complexity and length.
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