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The Fragile Skin of the World

Exploring the intricate connections of existence

Jean-Luc Nancy author Cory Stockwell translator

Format:Hardback

Publisher:John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Published:1st Oct '21

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The Fragile Skin of the World cover

This insightful exploration in The Fragile Skin of the World examines the delicate connections that shape our existence within a chaotic universe.

In The Fragile Skin of the World, the author explores the intricate relationship between humanity and the cosmos, drawing parallels between the world and a living organism. The text delves into the idea that if the world were to be likened to an animal, it would possess a skin that grants it unity. However, this world is neither a mere animal nor a mechanical construct; it is an intricate tapestry woven from the chaos of history, culture, and the fleeting moments of human experience. The notion of a singular skin is replaced by the turbulence of existence, which shapes the narratives of grandeur and decline.

The narrative emphasizes that the world is defined by the connections we forge with one another and the events that shape our lives. Each interaction, glance, and movement contributes to a collective experience that transcends individual existence. This interconnectedness creates a continuous flow of existence, where the act of being alive encompasses both triumphs and tragedies. In this view, the world is not a fixed entity but rather a dynamic process that evolves through the myriad experiences of its inhabitants.

The texts compiled in this volume reflect a deep concern for the current state of humanity as we navigate the extremities of our historical journey. Whether these moments signify a turning point, a rupture, or simply the end of an era, The Fragile Skin of the World invites readers to contemplate the fragility of existence and the profound connections that define our shared reality.

"In this weaving together of texts, what emerges is a way of thinking the here and now, when everything appears to be falling apart, when progress isn't progressing; an extreme fragility of existence that opens onto 'exemplary stories of the 'flesh''."
Professor Philip Armstrong, Ohio State University

"... a significant collection of Nancy's work."
Phenomenological Reviews

ISBN: 9781509549153

Dimensions: 218mm x 142mm x 15mm

Weight: 295g

140 pages