Walter Benjamin at the Dairy Queen - by Larry McMurtry (Paperback)

The book "Walter Benjamin at the Dairy Queen" by Larry McMurtry is a masterpiece of nonfiction that offers a unique blend of personal memoir, cultural critique, and literary history.

Through a series of essays and reflections, McMurtry paints a vivid portrait of Texas and its people, exploring the ways in which the state's vastness and emptiness have shaped its culture and identity. With a keen eye for detail and a deep love of literature, McMurtry delves into the stories that have influenced his own life and work, from childhood memories to the joys of oral storytelling.

At the same time, he offers a powerful critique of the ways in which big oil and big ranching have transformed Texas, erasing the frontier and leaving behind a landscape of empty spaces and lost traditions. Throughout the book, McMurtry's writing is both frank and beautiful, full of insight and humor.

He is at his best when reflecting on the joys of reading and writing, and the ways in which literature can help us make sense of our lives and our times. Whether you are a fan of Texas history, literary criticism, or simply great writing, "Walter Benjamin at the Dairy Queen" is a must-read.

With its richly satisfying blend of memoir, cultural critique, and literary history, this book is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the power of literature to shape our understanding of the world around us.