Abstract

While there has been a great deal written about the influence of French existentialism on modern fiction, Le­han’s new book is strikingly different from other interpretations. With over twenty-five articles published on the topic, Lehan is an authority on the subject and an expert in American literature. He brings to this exciting new approach a knowledge and an awareness of the reciprocal influence of French philosophers and American novelists never before shown. As he moves from Nietzsche’s super­man to Heller’s functionaries, Lehan presents the complete chronology as well as the full spectacle of literary existentialism. Exceptionally well writ­ten, his book is especially valuable for the clear perspective he thus provides.