Gertrude Stein Discussion Summary

Our discussion today on Gertrude Stein was very interesting, and many good points were brought up about the meanings behind how she structured and wrote this book. The recurring theme of how Stein's work had not been as appreciated as it should have been (as least she thought so) is reflected in the idea of "art vs. official art." The stories of her friends (Matisse, Picasso, etc.) greatly demonstrate this. Their unique style of art was not appreciated by people in the beginning, except for Stein, and at that point they were not considered "official art" yet. This is also Stein's situation because nobody liked her writing. However, while Matisse, Picasso, and Hemingway have all become famous later on and elevated to the level of "official art," Stein remains at her original position. In class, we decided that writing this book was Stein's attempt to make her become "official art" as all her friends have.

Another important point brought up in the discussion is the product placement of Stein's other works in this book. The story of how her other works were criticized and rejected were told in the book and may have served to refute those negative comments she received in the past. It's like as if she's saying, "If my writing is so bad, then why are you publishing this book?"

So far from what I've gotten out of the book, Stein's bitterness regarding her lack of recognition is becoming a bit overwhelming with the constant references to herself as a genius. I think we get the point, and we should move on.