In 'The Flamethrowers', Rachel Kushner weaves a captivating tale centered around a young woman's quest for identity amidst the chaos of 1970s art and motorcycle culture. Set against the backdrop of the Italian radical left and the gritty glamour of New York's art scene, the protagonist navigates love, ambition, and political upheaval. The novel intertwines themes of rebellion and creation, challenging the boundaries of art and activism. As she delves deeper into her passions and relationships, sparks will fly—both literally and metaphorically. Join her thrilling journey where the flames of desire and danger ignite a powerful exploration of freedom and artistry.
By Rachel Kushner
Published: 2014
""The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there.""
Arriving in New York to pursue a creative career in the raucous 1970s art scene, Reno joins a group of dreamers and raconteurs before falling in love with the estranged son of an Italian motorcycle scion and succumbing to a radical social movement in 1977 Italy.
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Rachel Kushner is an acclaimed American author known for her incisive exploration of contemporary issues through fiction. She is the author of several notable works, including the novels "Telex from Cuba," "The Flamethrowers," and "The Mars Room," which have garnered critical acclaim and numerous accolades. Kushner's writing is characterized by its rich prose, intricate narratives, and a keen eye for the complexities of modern life and culture, often blending personal and historical perspectives. A graduate of the Creative Writing Program at the University of California, Irvine, she has also contributed essays and articles to various prestigious publications. Kushner's unique voice and thought-provoking themes have established her as a significant figure in contemporary literature.
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View Collection“"The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there."”
The Flamethrowers
By Rachel Kushner
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