What Would Lynne Tillman Do?

What Would Lynne Tillman Do? is a collection of essays and cultural criticism spanning several decades of Tillman's writing career. The pieces range from personal reflections to literary analysis to observations on art, film, and contemporary culture. The essays tackle subjects including Andy Warhol's legacy, the role of literature in society, and the nature of American identity. Tillman examines works by writers and artists like Edith Wharton, Jane Bowles, and Jeff Koons while also exploring broader topics such as memory, relationships, and the creative process. The book includes both previously published pieces from various publications and new writing created specifically for this collection. Tillman's varied background as a novelist, cultural critic, and professor informs her perspective throughout the essays. The collection presents a distinctive critical voice that questions established narratives about art and culture while exploring how meaning and identity are constructed through writing. Her approach combines intellectual rigor with personal perspective to examine the intersections of culture, politics, and everyday life.

Readers highlight Tillman's sharp cultural criticism and wit throughout this essay collection. Many note the book's intellectual depth and range of subjects from literature to photography to popular culture. Positives from reviews: - Unique blend of memoir and criticism - Strong analysis of American culture - Clear, precise writing style - Thought-provoking perspectives on art and society Common criticisms: - Dense academic language can be challenging - Some essays feel disconnected or fragmented - References require extensive cultural knowledge - A few readers found the tone pretentious Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (82 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (6 reviews) Notable reader comments: "Her cultural criticism cuts deep while remaining playful" - Goodreads reviewer "Requires patience but rewards close reading" - Amazon review "Like having an illuminating conversation with a brilliant friend" - LibraryThing user The collection resonates most with readers interested in literary criticism and cultural theory.

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🔷 This collection of essays takes its title from the "What Would Jesus Do?" slogan popular in the 1990s, playfully positioning Tillman as a cultural arbiter while simultaneously critiquing the notion of absolute authority 🔷 Lynne Tillman wrote many of these essays while serving as a columnist for Frieze art magazine, where she developed her signature style of weaving cultural criticism with personal narrative 🔷 The book includes Tillman's reflections on figures ranging from Andy Warhol to Paula Fox, demonstrating her deep connections within New York's art and literary scenes spanning several decades 🔷 Before becoming a writer, Tillman worked as a social worker in New York City's Lower East Side, an experience that influenced her perspective on urban life and social dynamics featured throughout these essays 🔷 The collection showcases Tillman's innovative approach to criticism, where she often incorporates elements of fiction into her essays, blurring the boundaries between genres in what she calls "fiction thinking"