Sontag: Her Life and Work

A Biography of One of the Most Influential Writers of the 20th Century

Susan Sontag was a writer, critic, and filmmaker whose work explored a wide range of topics, including art, literature, politics, and philosophy. She was one of the most influential intellectuals of the 20th century, and her work continues to be read and studied by people all over the world.

Early Life and Education

Susan Sontag was born in New York City in 1933. Her father was a furrier, and her mother was a teacher. Sontag showed a talent for writing at an early age, and she published her first novel, "The Benefactor," when she was just 17 years old.

Sontag attended the University of Chicago and Harvard University, where she studied philosophy and literature. After graduating from Harvard, she moved to Paris, where she lived for several years. In Paris, Sontag met many of the leading intellectuals of the day, including Simone de Beauvoir, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Roland Barthes.

Writing Career

Sontag's writing career began in the early 1960s. She published her first collection of essays, "Against Interpretation," in 1966. The book was a critical success, and it helped to establish Sontag as a major new voice in American literature.

Sontag continued to publish essays, novels, and films throughout her career. Her work is often characterized by its intellectual rigor, its political engagement, and its stylistic brilliance. Sontag's most famous works include the novels "The Benefactor" (1963), "Death Kit" (1967), and "In America" (1973); the essay collections "Against Interpretation" (1966), "Styles of Radical Will" (1969), and "Under the Sign of Saturn" (1980); and the films "Duet for Cannibals" (1969) and "Brother Carl" (1971).

Political Activism

Sontag was a vocal critic of the Vietnam War and other American military interventions. She also spoke out against racism, sexism, and homophobia. Sontag's political activism made her a target of criticism from both the left and the right. However, she never wavered in her commitment to social justice.

Death and Legacy

Susan Sontag died of cancer in 2004. She was 71 years old. Sontag's death was a great loss to the world of literature and intellectual thought. However, her work continues to inspire and challenge readers all over the world.

Why You Should Read Sontag

Susan Sontag was one of the most important writers of the 20th century. Her work is essential reading for anyone interested in literature, philosophy, politics, or culture. Sontag's writing is brilliant, provocative, and always thought-provoking. She is a writer who will stay with you long after you finish reading her work.

Where to Buy Sontag's Books

Susan Sontag's books are available at most major bookstores. You can also find her books online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other retailers.