David Foster Wallace Books to Read A Journey into Literary Genius

David foster wallace books to read – David Foster Wallace books to read offer a profound and unforgettable journey into the depths of the human condition. His words, a tapestry woven with intricate prose, humor, and profound insights, invite readers to explore the complexities of life, love, and loss. From the sprawling epic of
-Infinite Jest* to the insightful essays of
-Consider the Lobster*, Wallace’s work challenges, captivates, and ultimately, resonates with readers on a deeply personal level.

This exploration delves into Wallace’s diverse literary landscape, examining his unique style, key themes, and the impact of his writing on contemporary literature. We’ll dissect his major works, offering insightful recommendations for beginners, and providing strategies to unlock the richness within his complex prose. Prepare to embark on a literary adventure, where each page unveils a new layer of meaning and understanding.

Introduction to David Foster Wallace’s Works

David Foster Wallace, a name synonymous with intricate prose and profound exploration of the human condition, left an indelible mark on American literature. His unique blend of humor, intellectual rigor, and emotional depth captivated readers, prompting critical acclaim and enduring influence. Beyond his novels, his essays and short stories further solidified his status as a writer capable of tackling complex issues with both intellectual honesty and engaging wit.Wallace’s work delves into the complexities of modern life, examining themes of alienation, social pressures, and the search for meaning in a world often characterized by absurdity and disillusionment.

His writing style is characterized by a distinctive voice, meticulously crafted sentences, and a keen awareness of the nuances of language. His ability to blend philosophical inquiry with everyday experiences makes his work both challenging and rewarding.

Key Themes and Stylistic Elements

Wallace’s writing frequently grapples with the challenges of identity formation, the pitfalls of consumerism, and the complexities of human relationships. He explores these themes through a unique blend of intellectual rigor and emotional vulnerability. His distinctive style often employs intricate sentence structures, philosophical musings, and a dry wit, all contributing to a highly engaging and thought-provoking reading experience.

A hallmark of his work is the exploration of consciousness, often highlighting the struggles of individuals to navigate the internal and external worlds.

Examples of Wallace’s Diverse Writing Styles

Wallace’s output encompasses a diverse range of literary forms. He excelled in novels, creating intricate narratives filled with philosophical insights and compelling characters. His essays, collected in volumes likeConsider the Lobster*, reveal his sharp intellect and ability to engage with complex topics. Furthermore, his short stories, often interwoven with elements of the surreal and the absurd, showcase his unique talent for crafting compelling narratives.

Comparison of Major Works

Work	Genre	Key Characteristics
Infinite Jest	Novel	A sprawling, satirical novel exploring themes of addiction, alienation, and the search for meaning in a world obsessed with entertainment. Characterized by its extensive scope and intricate plotlines.
Consider the Lobster	Essays	A collection of essays on diverse topics, from the philosophy of food to the absurdity of consumer culture, showcasing Wallace’s intellectual curiosity and his unique perspective.
Girl with Curious Hair	Short Stories	A collection of short stories, often characterized by their surreal and dreamlike qualities, delving into the lives of ordinary individuals and their often-uncomfortable encounters with the world around them.
A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again	Essays and Short Stories	A collection of essays and short stories showcasing Wallace’s unique ability to merge humor and thoughtfulness in exploring various facets of life.

In-Depth Exploration of Specific Works

Diving into the intricate world of David Foster Wallace’s prose is like embarking on a meticulously crafted intellectual journey. Each sentence, each paragraph, each novel, carries a unique weight, demanding careful consideration and deep engagement. His works aren’t just stories; they’re explorations of the human condition, the absurdity of existence, and the often-overlooked nuances of everyday life. His prose is a complex tapestry woven with wit, pathos, and a keen understanding of the human heart.Wallace’s writing invites us to reconsider our assumptions and perspectives, prompting a profound introspection into the fabric of our own lives.

He presents the world not as a simple narrative, but as a multifaceted experience, filled with contradictions and complexities. This exploration delves into specific works, examining their unique structures, characters, and thematic depth.

Infinite Jest

Infinite Jest, a sprawling, multi-layered novel, follows the intertwined lives of several characters grappling with a multitude of personal and societal issues. The novel’s central characters, such as the main protagonist, are entangled in a complex web of relationships, challenges, and obsessions. It explores themes of addiction, trauma, and the search for meaning in a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming.

The plot unfolds across numerous timelines, interweaving different narratives and characters. The sheer scale and complexity of the plot demand patience and careful attention to detail from the reader.

Consider the Lobster

Consider the Lobster, a collection of essays, showcases Wallace’s unique blend of intellectual curiosity and wry humor. These essays explore diverse topics, ranging from the philosophical implications of consuming crustaceans to the complexities of modern culture. This collection stands apart from Wallace’s other works by its more concise and focused format, in contrast to the extended narratives of novels like Infinite Jest.

It offers a window into his intellectual process and his insightful observations on a broad spectrum of ideas.

Good Old Neon

Good Old Neon, a short story collection, presents a unique narrative structure. Each story is a meticulously crafted vignette, capturing a specific moment in time or a particular character’s experience. The stories vary in tone and style, from humorous to poignant, highlighting the multifaceted nature of human experience. The collection as a whole, however, offers a compelling portrait of the human condition through the lens of everyday moments.

A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again

A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again, a collection of essays, showcases Wallace’s keen insights into the human condition. These essays are marked by a distinctive blend of humor, self-reflection, and a deep engagement with the world around him. It’s a collection that invites the reader to engage with their own perspectives and the complexities of existence.

This collection, unlike his novels, is a more direct exploration of his thoughts and experiences.

Exploring Wallace’s Style and Themes

David Foster Wallace’s writing, a distinctive blend of intellectual rigor and playful absurdity, left an indelible mark on contemporary literature. His unique approach to storytelling, often characterized by intricate prose and a keen eye for the nuances of the human condition, captivated readers and critics alike. He wasn’t afraid to tackle complex ideas and explore the often-conflicting emotions and experiences that shape our lives.Wallace’s prose is often described as dense and demanding, requiring active engagement from the reader.

This isn’t merely a stylistic choice; it reflects his desire to create a space for introspection and intellectual exploration within the narrative. His sentences frequently meander, mirroring the winding paths of thought and the often-unpredictable nature of human experience. This approach, though sometimes challenging, ultimately serves to immerse the reader in the world he constructs.

Wallace’s Unique Writing Style

Wallace’s style is characterized by a masterful use of language, often employing intricate sentence structures and a wide range of vocabulary. He masterfully weaves together seemingly disparate ideas, creating a sense of intellectual density and complexity. This stylistic choice isn’t merely ornamental; it reflects his desire to engage the reader in a multifaceted exploration of the human condition.

He uses language to both illuminate and obscure, to clarify and complicate, all in service of a deeper understanding of the world. Examples of this include the extended metaphors and allusions found throughout his works.

Recurring Themes in Wallace’s Works

Central to Wallace’s body of work are recurring themes revolving around the complexities of human experience. Irony, absurdity, and the inherent contradictions of the human condition are consistently explored. His characters often grapple with feelings of alienation, disillusionment, and the search for meaning in a seemingly chaotic world. He often uses satire and humor to illuminate these themes, employing a sharp wit to expose the foibles and contradictions of modern life.

Wallace’s Use of Humor and Satire

Wallace employs humor and satire to underscore the absurdity of human endeavors and the often-uncomfortable truths about ourselves. He doesn’t shy away from poking fun at societal norms, intellectual pretensions, and the inherent contradictions of human nature. This comedic approach, while often subtle and sophisticated, is integral to his exploration of the human condition. For example, inInfinite Jest*, the exaggerated portrayal of the characters’ struggles and obsessions serves as a satirical commentary on modern anxieties.

His humor, rather than being simply entertaining, acts as a tool to expose and challenge societal norms.

Comparison with Contemporary Authors

Comparing Wallace’s style to other contemporary authors reveals a unique blend of influences. His intricate prose and intellectual density find echoes in the works of authors like Thomas Pynchon and John Barth. However, Wallace’s particular brand of humor and self-aware irony differentiates his style from these other writers. While sharing some stylistic affinities, Wallace’s exploration of the human condition is distinctly his own, reflecting his particular perspective on the complexities of modern life.

Analyzing Wallace’s Influence

David Foster Wallace’s profound impact on contemporary literature resonates through his innovative style, challenging narratives, and insightful exploration of complex themes. His works, often dense and demanding, pushed the boundaries of traditional storytelling, forcing readers to confront their own assumptions and engage with the world in a new way. His legacy extends beyond the pages of his novels, shaping critical approaches and inspiring a generation of writers.Wallace’s influence is undeniable, shaping a new generation of writers who embraced experimental narratives, philosophical explorations, and intricate prose.

He challenged the conventional notions of literary structure and character development, paving the way for more nuanced and complex portrayals of human experience. His keen observations on the human condition, often delivered with a wry humor and intellectual rigor, continue to captivate and inspire.

Wallace’s Impact on Contemporary Literature

Wallace’s work profoundly impacted contemporary literature by challenging established norms and fostering a greater openness to experimental forms. His meticulous attention to detail, coupled with his philosophical underpinnings, fostered a new generation of writers who felt empowered to explore themes of identity, social structures, and the search for meaning in a complex world. His stylistic innovations, including intricate sentence structures and metafictional elements, encouraged a shift towards more complex and engaging narratives.

Impact on Literary Criticism

Wallace’s works prompted a significant shift in literary criticism. His dense prose and intricate philosophical explorations forced critics to grapple with new methodologies. The rise of close reading, often coupled with a deeper engagement with post-modernist ideas, owed a debt to the rigor and depth of Wallace’s writing. His engagement with the postmodern questioning of meaning and the search for significance fundamentally changed the ways critics approached texts.

Enduring Appeal of Wallace’s Work

Wallace’s work endures not just because of its literary merit, but also because of its profound resonance with contemporary experiences. His exploration of the complexities of modern life, including the search for meaning, the anxieties of social status, and the struggles of self-discovery, continue to strike a chord with readers. The characters in his works, often flawed and grappling with similar existential dilemmas, connect with the reader’s own struggles, making his narratives relatable and enduring.

Table: Wallace’s Impact on Different Literary Genres

Literary Genre	Impact Demonstrated
Novel	Introduced innovative structures and philosophical depth, expanding the scope of character development and narrative complexity.
Essays	Demonstrated the power of personal reflection and intellectual inquiry to explore universal themes.
Short Stories	Refined the art of subtle observation and thematic exploration within concise narratives.
Literary Criticism	Inspired a new generation of critics to engage with literary texts with increased intellectual rigor and methodological sophistication.

Reading Strategies and Tips: David Foster Wallace Books To Read

Delving into David Foster Wallace’s intricate prose requires a dedicated approach. His sentences often weave together layers of meaning, demanding a thoughtful and active engagement from the reader. This section offers strategies to navigate the complexities of his writing, ensuring a richer and more rewarding experience.

Unpacking Wallace’s Prose, David foster wallace books to read

Understanding Wallace’s style hinges on recognizing his deliberate use of language. He often employs complex sentence structures, interwoven metaphors, and subtle shifts in tone. This deliberate approach demands a reader who’s prepared to invest time and effort in deciphering the nuances. This isn’t about simply reading the words; it’s about actively engaging with the author’s ideas and the way they are presented.

Strategies for Engaging with Complex Prose

A crucial aspect of engaging with Wallace’s writing is developing strategies for tackling challenging passages. Careful reading, coupled with a willingness to reread, is fundamental.

• Active Reading: Don’t passively consume the words; instead, actively question, annotate, and reflect on what you’re reading. Highlight key phrases, underline recurring themes, and jot down your initial reactions. This engagement will help solidify your understanding and uncover hidden meanings.
• Breaking Down Sentences: Wallace often constructs sentences that seem daunting. Break them down into smaller, more manageable parts. Identify the core argument and the supporting details. This process will illuminate the intricate connections within the text.
• Contextualization: Consider the broader context of the passage within the chapter, and the book as a whole. How does the passage relate to the themes and arguments developed throughout the work? Understanding the broader context will enhance your understanding of the author’s intent and the specific nuances of the passage.
• Rereading: Rereading is not a sign of weakness, but a testament to your commitment to understanding. Each rereading offers a new perspective, highlighting subtleties that might have been missed previously. Take notes on your evolving interpretations and compare them with your earlier observations.

Overcoming Challenges in Understanding

Encountering difficult passages is a natural part of the reading process. Embrace these challenges as opportunities for deeper learning and appreciation.

• Seeking Clarification: If a particular passage remains unclear, don’t hesitate to consult secondary sources. Academic articles, critical essays, or even online forums can provide additional insights and perspectives.
• Focusing on Key Ideas: In complex texts, it’s easy to get lost in the details. Concentrate on the core arguments and supporting evidence. Don’t get bogged down in every single sentence or metaphor.
• Exploring Literary Devices: Wallace’s writing often employs various literary devices, such as satire, irony, and symbolism. Identifying and understanding these devices will enrich your comprehension of the text.
• Maintaining Patience: Wallace’s prose requires patience. Don’t rush through the text. Allow yourself ample time to engage with the material, and be prepared to return to passages multiple times. The reward for patience is often a deeper understanding of the author’s message.

Approaching Difficult Passages

Wallace’s writing is often challenging, yet this difficulty can be a source of profound rewards. The key is to develop a strategic approach.

• Annotating: Highlight key words, phrases, and sentences. Write notes in the margins to record your initial interpretations and questions. This process of engagement helps solidify understanding.
• Identifying Patterns: Look for recurring themes, motifs, or stylistic elements. These patterns can provide clues about the author’s intentions and the overall message.
• Considering Multiple Interpretations: Wallace’s writing often invites multiple interpretations. Don’t be afraid to consider different perspectives and explore the various possible meanings.
• Seeking Connections: Connect the passage to other parts of the text. How does it relate to the characters, plot, and overall themes?

Active Reading as a Cornerstone

Active reading is an essential strategy for navigating Wallace’s writing. It moves beyond mere comprehension to deeper engagement with the text’s nuances.

• Engaging with the Text: Ask questions. Challenge the author’s assumptions. Explore alternative interpretations. Active engagement with the text is key to unlocking its full potential.
• Questioning Assumptions: Don’t accept everything at face value. Challenge the author’s assumptions and consider alternative perspectives.
• Connecting with the Author’s Voice: Actively listen to the author’s voice and consider the effect of his specific word choices.
• Reflecting on the Text: Reflect on the themes, arguments, and ideas presented. How do they resonate with your own experiences and perspectives?

Illustrative Examples of Wallace’s Writing

David Foster Wallace’s prose is a vibrant tapestry woven from threads of intricate imagery, profound symbolism, and a unique linguistic dance. He doesn’t just tell stories; he invites readers into a world where language itself becomes the subject. His writing, often dense and layered, rewards careful attention and repeated readings.

Imagery in Wallace’s Prose

Wallace masterfully crafts vivid sensory experiences through carefully chosen imagery. He doesn’t simply describe; he evokes feelings and emotions. Consider the way he paints a scene, not with broad strokes, but with meticulous details. This precision in description immerses the reader in the story’s atmosphere, drawing them deeper into the narrative’s heart. He uses figurative language, metaphor, and simile to enrich his writing, making the mundane extraordinary.

Symbolism in Wallace’s Work

Wallace often employs symbolism to explore complex themes. He uses objects, actions, and characters to represent abstract ideas. This technique adds another layer of depth to his narratives, prompting readers to consider the hidden meanings embedded within the story. By carefully observing these symbols, readers gain a deeper understanding of the characters’ motivations and the overall message of the work.

Examples of Wallace’s Unique Writing Style

A compelling example of Wallace’s unique writing style comes fromInfinite Jest*. The relentless stream of consciousness, interwoven with philosophical musings, showcases his ability to create a deeply immersive experience. He blends humor with profound insights, creating a tone that is both playful and thought-provoking.

“The problem, of course, is that it’s not a problem at all, really. It’s just a matter of… well, of getting to the point where you can finally just say, ‘Okay, so this is the point, and it’s a really big one, and it has to do with the way you’re using the word ‘problem’ and what that means to you.'”

Another example, fromConsider the Lobster*, highlights Wallace’s unique ability to engage with seemingly mundane topics and elevate them to a profound level. The way he tackles the seemingly trivial topic of lobster preparation in such a multifaceted way, incorporating philosophical considerations and cultural analysis, showcases his intellectual curiosity and literary prowess.

Tone and Mood in Wallace’s Prose

Wallace expertly manipulates language to establish a specific tone and mood. He skillfully moves between humor and pathos, irony and seriousness, creating a complex and layered experience for the reader. This ability to create a range of emotions through his writing is a key element in his storytelling approach. Through his unique approach to language, he often creates a feeling of both intense engagement and gentle detachment, a duality that mirrors the human experience itself.

Specific Passages Demonstrating Wallace’s Style

FromThe Pale King*, Wallace creates a particular tone through his detailed description of bureaucratic processes. The mundane nature of the work is juxtaposed with the characters’ struggles, highlighting the absurdity of human existence. This contrasts sharply with the often whimsical and humorous approach he takes in other parts of his writing.

• In
  -Infinite Jest*, the characters’ obsession with the game of infinite jest illustrates how he uses seemingly trivial elements to represent profound themes.
• The intricate language in
  -Consider the Lobster* illustrates his ability to elevate mundane topics to a level of profound philosophical discourse.
• The characters’ interactions and internal monologues in
  -A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again* highlight Wallace’s unique ability to capture the complexities of human relationships.

Contextualizing Wallace’s Works

David Foster Wallace’s writing, a potent blend of intellectual rigor and poignant emotional depth, wasn’t born in a vacuum. His exploration of complex themes—from alienation and the search for meaning to the absurdity of modern life—reflects the socio-cultural currents of his time. Understanding these contexts provides a richer appreciation for the nuances and layers within his work.His works are often viewed through a lens of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, a time marked by rapid technological advancement, shifting social norms, and a growing awareness of interconnected global issues.

These elements deeply influenced Wallace’s perspective and contributed to the unique voice he developed.

Historical Context of Wallace’s Career

Wallace’s literary career spanned a period of significant cultural and intellectual ferment. The rise of postmodernism, challenging traditional narratives and embracing ambiguity, significantly impacted the literary landscape. This era also witnessed a growing interest in philosophical and psychological explorations, evident in the work of many writers of the time.

Socio-Cultural Influences on Wallace’s Themes

The socio-cultural backdrop of Wallace’s time profoundly shaped his themes. The increasing fragmentation of society, the rise of consumerism, and anxieties surrounding identity played a crucial role in his depictions of characters grappling with their place in the world. Furthermore, the growing awareness of the interconnectedness of global issues and the complex realities of human experience were reflected in his writing.

Literary Landscape During Wallace’s Career

The literary landscape during Wallace’s career was marked by a diverse range of voices and styles. Contemporary writers, including but not limited to other postmodernists and experimental novelists, contributed to a vibrant and evolving literary scene. This environment of intellectual exchange and experimentation likely shaped Wallace’s own approach to crafting narratives.

Table: Historical Period and Cultural Influences on Wallace’s Work

Historical Period	Cultural Influences	Examples in Wallace’s Work
Late 20th Century/Early 21st Century	Rise of consumerism, rapid technological advancement, shifting social norms, growing awareness of global issues, postmodernism	Characters struggling with identity and meaning in a rapidly changing world; exploration of the complexities of human experience; critiques of consumerism and its impact on individuals.
Postmodernist Literature	Rejection of traditional narratives, embrace of ambiguity, focus on fragmentation and irony	Experiments with narrative structure, use of irony and satire, questioning of established truths.
Post-Cold War Era	Global interconnectedness, anxieties about the future, changing political landscape	Exploration of themes of isolation, alienation, and the search for meaning in a world facing uncertain times.

Character Portrayals in Wallace’s Novels

David Foster Wallace’s characters aren’t just people; they’re intricate tapestries woven from anxieties, aspirations, and absurdities. He meticulously crafts their personalities, often revealing their inner turmoil and contradictions with a keen eye for the human condition’s complexities. These characters, though often flawed and grappling with their own demons, serve as potent reflections of the struggles and triumphs we all face.Wallace’s characters aren’t simple archetypes; they are richly developed individuals.

He doesn’t shy away from depicting their vulnerabilities, their foibles, and their moments of profound self-doubt. He understands that true human experience is rarely linear or predictable, and his characters embody this multifaceted reality. This intricate portrayal of humanity is what makes his work so compelling and resonates with readers on a profound level.

Key Characters and Their Portrayals

Wallace masterfully introduces a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique motivations and struggles. From the philosophical musings of characters in

• Infinite Jest* to the existential angst of the protagonists in
• Consider the Lobster*, each individual embodies a specific facet of the human experience. Understanding these characters is crucial to appreciating the nuanced messages within his narratives.

Exploring Character Complexity

Wallace often portrays characters grappling with existential crises, identity issues, and societal pressures. For instance, the characters inInfinite Jest* are often trapped in their own internal worlds, struggling to reconcile their personal desires with the demands of their environment. This exploration of inner conflict is a hallmark of Wallace’s writing. Characters often possess hidden depths, and their actions are driven by a multitude of factors that are not always apparent at first glance.

They often confront their own limitations, making mistakes, and learning from them, or sometimes, failing to learn.

Character Development and the Human Condition

Wallace’s novels frequently use character development to illuminate the multifaceted nature of the human condition. The characters, though diverse in their backgrounds and circumstances, share common threads of yearning, fear, and self-discovery. These characters demonstrate that the pursuit of meaning and purpose is a universal human endeavor, regardless of background or societal position. Wallace masterfully captures the emotional spectrum of human experience, highlighting both the joy and the sorrow that shape our lives.

The Role of Unreliable Narrators

Wallace frequently employs unreliable narrators, who often have skewed perspectives and biases. These narrators’ subjectivity forces the reader to question the validity of the narrative presented, prompting critical engagement with the story. For instance, inInfinite Jest*, the reader is constantly challenged to question the narrator’s perceptions and interpretations of events. This technique further deepens the complexity of the characters and the narrative itself.

Book Selection Based on Reader Interests

David Foster Wallace’s works, while often challenging, offer a rich tapestry of experiences. Navigating this literary landscape can feel like a journey, and choosing a starting point can be daunting. This section provides a roadmap, categorizing his books to help you find the perfect entry point.

Humor and Wit

Wallace’s writing, while frequently serious, possesses a sharp wit and a quirky humor that can be quite engaging. This category highlights books where his distinctive voice shines through in the form of dry wit and satirical observations. A keen sense of the absurd and clever wordplay often punctuate these selections.

• Infinite Jest: This sprawling novel is a masterclass in absurdist humor. The intricate plots, interwoven characters, and surreal situations combine to create a comedic tapestry that’s both laugh-out-loud funny and deeply thought-provoking. The characters’ struggles with addiction and self-destruction provide a poignant backdrop for the humor.
• Consider the Lobster: This collection of essays and short pieces showcases Wallace’s ability to blend the absurd with the profound. From discussions of lobsters to the meaning of life, Wallace’s quirky approach to serious topics creates a unique comedic effect.

Social Commentary and Satire

Wallace’s novels often serve as a mirror reflecting the societal issues of his time. This section focuses on works that utilize humor and sharp observations to critique societal norms and values. The characters and situations within these books often act as allegories for broader societal problems.

• A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again: This collection of essays delves into the anxieties and frustrations of modern life. Through humorous anecdotes and insightful commentary, Wallace tackles everything from the nature of boredom to the meaning of happiness. It’s a critique of modern American society, presented with a wry smile.
• Brief Interviews with Hideous Men: This collection of short stories features a wide array of characters and scenarios, each offering a commentary on various social issues. Wallace’s keen eye for human folly and his sharp wit make these stories thought-provoking and often amusing.

Philosophical Reflection and Existentialism

Wallace’s work frequently grapples with profound questions about the meaning of life, the nature of consciousness, and the human condition. This category highlights books that delve into complex philosophical themes.

• Infinite Jest: Beyond the humor, this novel explores the existential dread and the search for meaning in a world that often feels meaningless. Characters grapple with profound questions about the self, identity, and the nature of reality.
• Everything and Nothing: A Book of Essays: This collection of essays dives deep into the human condition and the search for meaning in life. Wallace’s unique voice and ability to connect the mundane to the profound create a deeply personal and insightful experience for the reader.

Character Portrayals

Book	Character Focus	Examples
Infinite Jest	Multi-layered characters, exploring the complexities of human psychology.	Hal Incandenza, Dr. Lamarr
The Pale King	Bureaucratic characters, exploring the human impact of bureaucracy and the disillusionment within it.	Various characters in the IRS office.
Consider the Lobster	Varied perspectives on societal issues.	Essays featuring different social and cultural contexts.