Writing

There is no need to fear the end of literary culture – but the way by which books are made is changing. With a focus on the recent history of the book market, Carolin Amlinger provides a comprehensive inventory of aesthetic economies that also allows a glimpse into the future of the book business. At the same time, the study condenses the diverse working and living environments of contemporary authors into a captivating sociological analysis that illuminates almost all facets of working with the written word. A book that opens up the world of bookmaking to us.

»Carolin Amlinger provides sociological enlightenment in the form of a dense description of the literary establishment.« Niels Werber, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung

»With these descriptions and analyses, Carolin Amlinger's voluminous volume is a must-read not only for actors in the German-language book market and for research into the mediation of literature in the media.« Jan Süselbeck, Die Zeit

»In an impressive manner, Carolin Amlinger breaks down the contradictions of the modern literary business and the life of the modern writer.« Steffen Martus, Süddeutsche Zeitung

»If you want to know why some people can write and others cannot, read this important and substantial book.« Mladen Gladic, WELT AM SONNTAG

»[The use of interviews] makes Amlinger‘s Writing an [...] easily readable book. [...] Its comprehensiveness is impressive« Gerrit Bartels, Der Tagesspiegel

»How can we create literature politically instead of creating political literature? As difficult as this desire may seem to realise, no one should do without Carolin Amlinger’s preliminary work in the sociology of literature.« Samir Sellami, Soziopolis

»Carolin Amlinger's study is a milestone in cultural sociology; its significance for the people who make their living in the literary business, whether in the field of production, distribution or reception, can hardly be overestimated.« Enno Stahl, Jungle World

»If you want to know how the logic of the publishing industry penetrates the seemingly autonomous writing processes of authors, read this informative book.« Heidemarie Schumacher, Deutschlandfunk