Quick Take

The first new book of essays by Christopher Hitchens since 2004, Arguably offers an indispensable key to understanding the passionate and skeptical spirit of one of our most dazzling writers, widely admired for the clarity of his style, a result of his disciplined and candid thinking. Topics range from ruminations on why Charles Dickens was among the best of writers and the worst of men to the haunting science fiction of J.G. Ballard; from the enduring legacies of Thomas Jefferson and George Orwell to the persistent agonies of anti-Semitism and jihad. Hitchens even looks at the recent financial crisis and argues for the enduring relevance of Karl Marx. The book forms a bridge between the two parallel enterprises of culture and politics. It reveals how politics justifies itself by culture, and how the latter prompts the former. In this fashion, Arguably burnishes Christopher Hitchens' credentials as (to quote Christopher Buckley) our "greatest living essayist in the English language."

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Arguably: Selected Essays

Introduction

"Arguably: Selected Essays" is a collection of essays by Christopher Hitchens, one of the most prominent and controversial writers of our time. Published in 2011, this book offers a glimpse into the diverse range of topics that Hitchens explored throughout his career. From literature to politics, religion to culture, Hitchens' essays provide a unique perspective on the world around us. In this article, we will delve into the book's content, analyze the author's views, and discuss why readers recommend it.

About Christopher Hitchens

Christopher Hitchens was an English-born American author, journalist, and literary critic. He was known for his sharp intellect, polemical writing style, and his ability to challenge conventional wisdom. Hitchens was a contributor to various media outlets, including Vanity Fair, The Atlantic, and World Affairs. He was also a political observer who wrote extensively on topics such as war, politics, and religion. Hitchens' most famous book, "God Is Not Great," made him a staple of talk shows and lecture circuits. He passed away in 2011, leaving behind a legacy of provocative and thought-provoking essays.

Analysis of Views

Passionate and Skeptical Spirit: Hitchens' essays reveal his passionate and skeptical spirit. He was not afraid to challenge established ideas and question the status quo. His writing style was characterized by his disciplined and candid thinking, which allowed him to explore complex topics with clarity and precision.
Generosity of Spirit: Despite his skepticism, Hitchens' essays showcase his generosity of spirit. He had a deep appreciation for literature and art, and he often wrote about the works of other authors with admiration and respect. His introductions to books by Rebecca West and others are particularly noteworthy for their insightfulness and eloquence.
Intellectual Challenges: Hitchens' essays challenged readers to think critically and question their assumptions. He was not afraid to confront controversial issues and offer unconventional perspectives. His essays on topics such as religion, politics, and culture often provoked thoughtful discussions and debates.
Wit and Humor: Hitchens' writing was infused with wit and humor. He had a talent for crafting clever phrases and witty observations that made his essays enjoyable to read. His ability to inject humor into serious topics added depth and nuance to his arguments.
Controversial Views: Hitchens' essays often provoked controversy due to his unapologetic views on sensitive issues. He was known for his outspoken criticism of religion, particularly Islam, and his support for military interventions in the Middle East. Some readers found his views polarizing and divisive, while others appreciated his willingness to challenge conventional wisdom.

Reasons for Recommendation

Intellectual Stimulation: Hitchens' essays provide intellectual stimulation for readers who enjoy exploring complex topics with a critical mindset. The book covers a wide range of subjects, from literature to politics, offering readers the opportunity to expand their knowledge and challenge their beliefs.
Writing Style: Hitchens' writing style is engaging and captivating. His ability to express complex ideas with clarity and precision makes his essays accessible to a wide audience. Readers appreciate his wit and humor, which add a layer of enjoyment to the reading experience.
Controversial Topics: Hitchens' essays tackle controversial topics that spark conversations and debates. Readers appreciate the opportunity to engage with different perspectives on issues that matter deeply to them. The book offers a platform for exploring complex ideas and challenging conventional wisdom.
Insightful Analysis: Hitchens' essays provide insightful analysis of various subjects, from literature to politics. Readers appreciate his ability to delve into the nuances of complex issues and offer well-reasoned arguments. His essays offer a fresh perspective on familiar topics, making them worth revisiting time and time again.
Intellectual Legacy: Christopher Hitchens' contributions to literature and journalism have left an indelible mark on the world of ideas. His essays serve as a testament to his intellectual prowess and his ability to challenge conventional wisdom. Readers recommend this book not only for its content but also as a tribute to one of the greatest minds of our time.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Polarizing Views: Some readers may find Hitchens' views polarizing and divisive. His unapologetic stance on controversial issues may alienate readers who hold opposing views or who are sensitive to certain topics. The book may not be suitable for readers who prefer more conciliatory or diplomatic approaches to discussing sensitive issues.
Lack of Index: The electronic edition of "Arguably: Selected Essays" is unindexed, which can make it difficult for readers to navigate through the book without a clear table of contents or index. This can be frustrating for readers who prefer a more organized reading experience or who want to quickly access specific essays or topics.
Limited Appeal: While Hitchens' essays are intellectually stimulating, they may not appeal to all readers due to their focus on controversial topics or their dense writing style. Some readers may find the book challenging or overwhelming due to its length or depth of analysis. The book may not be suitable for readers who prefer lighter or more accessible reading material.
Outdated References: Some essays in "Arguably: Selected Essays" contain references that may be outdated or irrelevant to contemporary readers. While Hitchens' insights remain valuable, readers may find certain sections of the book outdated or irrelevant due to changes in political landscape or cultural norms since the essays were first published.
Limited Availability: The availability of "Arguably: Selected Essays" in certain formats may be limited, making it difficult for readers who prefer physical copies or those who live in regions where the book is not readily available in bookstores or online retailers. This can be a barrier for readers who prefer physical books or who prefer reading on specific devices or platforms.

Conclusion

"Arguably: Selected Essays" by Christopher Hitchens is a collection of essays that explores a wide range of topics with clarity, insight, and wit. Hitchens' passionate and skeptical spirit shines through his writing, challenging readers to question their assumptions and expand their knowledge. While some readers may find his views polarizing or outdated, others appreciate his willingness to engage with controversial issues and offer unconventional perspectives. Overall, "Arguably: Selected Essays" serves as a testament to Hitchens' intellectual prowess and his ability to provoke thoughtful discussions on complex topics that matter deeply to us all.