Susan Sontag was not only one of the most original and influential voices in American literature but also one of the most significant personalities of the twentieth century.

This volume brings together for the first time some of her most penetrating articles and essays, passionate and heretical texts addressing the major issues concerning modern women: beauty, aging, emancipation, sexuality, her resistance to the power of patriarchy, and more broadly, her position in a constantly changing world with few constants.

Through her articles and essays, Sontag "provides food for thought that satisfies even the most demanding readers" (The Times). An author, philosopher, journalist, and activist, Susan Sontag (New York, 1933-2004) taught at renowned universities and had a rich literary and artistic oeuvre.

Contents

Introduction (by Merve Emre)

Double standards for age

The third world of women

The beauty of woman: A source of humiliation or strength?

Beauty: How will it change in the future?

The allure of fascism

Feminism and fascism: A conversation between Adrienne Rich and Susan Sontag

The interview in Salmagundi

References