Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.

"Mimesis, Expression, Construction: Fredric Jameson's Seminar on Aesthetic Theory" is a fascinating exploration into the depths of modernist aesthetics through the lens of one of the most influential cultural critics of our time. This book is not just a mere transcription of Fredric Jameson's seminar; it is a vibrant, living document that captures the dynamic interplay between teacher and students as they navigate the complex terrain of aesthetic theory.

The book is presented in an innovative format that mirrors a theatrical play, complete with stage settings, student interruptions, and exchanges. This approach not only brings the seminar to life but also underscores the performative aspect of teaching and learning. The inclusion of ambient sounds and auditory noises adds a layer of authenticity, transporting the reader directly into the classroom at Duke University.

Jameson's engagement with Adorno's Aesthetic Theory is both deep and broad, covering a range of topics from Kant, Hegel, and Freud to the Frankfurt School and beyond. The seminar delves into the works of Thomas Mann and Samuel Beckett, the music of Schoenberg, and the films of Chaplin, offering a rich tapestry of cultural critique.

What stands out in this book is the way Jameson and his students grapple with the concept of aesthetics as a field that straddles the cognitive and the artistic. It is a testament to the idea that understanding art requires a balance between conceptual knowledge and experiential immersion.

The editorial reviews hail the book as "mind-blowing," and it's easy to see why. Jameson's seminar is not just an academic exercise; it is a journey through the "flow of improvisations and mental experimentations" where the detours are as valuable as the main argument. It's a work that challenges the reader to think differently about art and its relation to society.

In conclusion, "Mimesis, Expression, Construction" is a groundbreaking addition to aesthetic theory and a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of art, philosophy, and politics. It is a book that not only informs but also transforms the reader, offering a unique window into the mind of Fredric Jameson and the power of aesthetic thought.