Customer Reviews

Securing the Past: Conservation in Art, Architecture and Literature

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Paul Eggert approaches the past with a breadth of philosophical insight, a range of examples from the humanities, and a clarity of expression, that few contemporary authors possess. He problematises the concept of 'preservation' with an emphasis on literary work, art work, and architecture, taking into account the many ways in which postmodernity has muddied the waters of 'the text' and 'the author'. He thus constantly reminds us that we - in the present - cannot escape from the objects from the past that we preserve, even as we try to disown their status as 'objects'. He takes us carefully through one paradox after another with the help of philosophy and considerable practical experience as an editor. The result is masterly. The only drawback is the absence of music, or film, perhaps, in Eggert's generous sway.