PREVIEW: The Career of David Lynch: Part II

Mike Miley's "David Lynch's American Dreamscape: Music, Literature, Cinema" explores the multifaceted influences on David Lynch's filmmaking. The book delves into the literary and musical traditions that resonate throughout Lynch's filmography, revealing a deeper understanding of his creative process. Miley examines how Lynch's work engages with and transforms various cultural touchstones, from children's literature to teen tragedy ballads. The analysis extends beyond cinema to encompass the broader cultural landscape, showcasing the interplay between different art forms. Ultimately, the book positions Lynch as a conduit for the American subconscious, channeling cultural anxieties and desires into his unique cinematic vision.

Published in 1892, 'The Yellow Wallpaper' is a pivotal work of feminist literature presented in the form of a series of journal entries written by an unnamed woman. The story delves into the themes of patriarchal control, the stifling nature of gender roles, and the consequences of denying women autonomy over their own lives. The protagonist, confined to a room by her physician husband, becomes increasingly obsessed with the yellow wallpaper, symbolizing her own feelings of oppression and entrapment. The narrative highlights the harm caused by the 'rest cure' treatment and the societal expectations that subordinated women during the Victorian era.