Lincoln Kirstein

Lincoln Kirstein (1907-1996) was an American writer, arts patron, and cultural figure who co-founded the New York City Ballet with George Balanchine. He made significant contributions to American ballet, visual art, and literature through his work as a critic, curator, and institutional leader. As a writer, Kirstein authored numerous books on dance, art history, and cultural criticism, including "Dance: A Short History of Classical Theatrical Dancing" (1935) and "Movement and Metaphor: Four Centuries of Ballet" (1970). His poetry collections and autobiographical works, such as "Mosaic: Memoirs" (1994), demonstrated his broad literary capabilities. Beyond his writing, Kirstein's most enduring legacy lies in his transformation of American ballet through the School of American Ballet and later the New York City Ballet. His partnership with choreographer George Balanchine revolutionized dance in America, establishing New York as a major center for ballet. Kirstein's influence extended into the visual arts through his curatorial work at the Museum of Modern Art and his support of American artists. His efforts to document and preserve American cultural heritage led to significant exhibitions and publications that shaped the understanding of American art history.

Lincoln Kirstein remains a niche figure whose writings attract ballet and art enthusiasts more than general readers. His dance criticism and cultural commentary receive particular attention from academics and dance professionals. Readers praise his firsthand accounts of working with George Balanchine and detailed knowledge of ballet history. Reviews note the thoroughness of his research and insider perspective on mid-20th century arts scenes. Dance students appreciate his technical analysis of choreography and movement. Common criticisms mention his dense, academic writing style that can be difficult to follow. Several readers find his tone pretentious and his cultural observations dated. Some note factual errors in his historical accounts. Ratings: Goodreads (limited data): - Intimate Companions: 3.8/5 (12 ratings) - The New York City Ballet: 4.2/5 (6 ratings) - By With To & From: 3.5/5 (4 ratings) Amazon ratings are sparse, with most of his books out of print and reviewed only by scholars or dance professionals rather than general readers.

Movement and Metaphor: Four Centuries of Ballet (1970) A comprehensive history of ballet from the Italian Renaissance through the 20th century, examining its development as both an art form and cultural phenomenon.

The Dance Encyclopedia (1949) A reference work containing detailed entries on dance terminology, choreographers, performers, and dance companies throughout history.

Dance: A Short History of Classic Theatrical Dancing (1935) A historical overview of theatrical dance from ancient civilizations through the early 20th century.

The New York City Ballet (1973) A detailed account of the founding and development of the New York City Ballet, including its artistic philosophy and major productions.

Lay This Laurel (1973) An examination of Augustus Saint-Gaudens' memorial to Colonel Robert Gould Shaw and the Massachusetts 54th Regiment.

Mosaic: Memoirs (1994) Kirstein's autobiographical work covering his life in the arts, including his collaboration with George Balanchine.

By with to and from: A Lincoln Kirstein Reader (1991) A collection of essays and writings spanning Kirstein's career, covering topics in dance, art, and cultural criticism.

The Classic Ballet: Basic Technique and Terminology (1952) A technical manual outlining the fundamental principles and vocabulary of classical ballet.

Rhymes of a Pfc (1964) A collection of poetry written during Kirstein's military service in World War II.

Thirty Years: Lincoln Kirstein's The New York City Ballet (1978) A chronological history of the New York City Ballet's first three decades of performances and artistic development.