Otherwise Known as the Human Condition

Otherwise Known as the Human Condition cover
Good Books rating 3.77
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Technical
  • ID: 4450
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781555970260
  • Publisher: Graywolf Press
  • Published: 2011-03-29
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Otherwise Known as the Human Condition is a captivating collection of essays, reviews, and misadventures by Geoff Dyer, showcasing his unique ability to blend criticism with lived experience. Over 25 years, Dyer has written on an astonishing array of subjects, from the shadow of Camus in Algeria to reflections on jazz and haute couture. His work seamlessly intertwines the reflective nature of criticism with the novelist's commitment to lived experience, creating a body of work that both frames and enlarges our understanding of the world. Dyer's essays are characterized by their incisive wit and surprising responses to his subjects. Whether he is exploring the works of Richard Avedon, the wonder of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, or the lives of his heroes like Rebecca West and Ryszard Kapuściński, Dyer's writing is a testament to his boundless curiosity and intellectual depth. This collection is a rare achievement, offering readers a way to sharpen their perceptions while expanding their view of the world.

Reviews
PopMatters · 2025-10-21
thought-provoking 4.00

The collection is interesting, especially the book reviews where Dyer examines the intersection of literature and life. The essays are thought-provoking and well-written.

PopMatters finds Geoff Dyer's collection 'Otherwise Known as the Human Condition' to be particularly interesting, especially the section that collects his numerous book reviews. Dyer's ability to examine the intersection of literature and life is highlighted, making the essays thought-provoking and well-written. The reviewer appreciates Dyer's unique perspective and his ability to engage with a wide range of topics. While the collection may not be as cohesive as some of Dyer's other works, it still offers a valuable insight into his thoughts and observations.


Quick quotes

    One of the more interesting sections collects Dyer's numerous book reviews, where it becomes clear that he is just as interested in examining the intersection of literature and life.

    The essays are thought-provoking and well-written, showcasing Dyer's unique perspective.

    Dyer's ability to engage with a wide range of topics makes the collection valuable and insightful.

The Paris Review · Geoff Dyer · 2011-04-19
insightful 3.50

The essays are engaging and reveal Dyer's honest critique of his times. The collection is ordinary yet insightful, showcasing Dyer's unique perspective.

Geoff Dyer's collection of essays in 'Otherwise Known as the Human Condition' offers a refreshing and honest critique of his times. The essays are engaging and reveal Dyer's unique perspective on various subjects. While some may find the topics ordinary, the collection is insightful and showcases Dyer's ability to find meaning in everyday experiences. The essays are well-written and provide a glimpse into Dyer's thoughts and observations, making it a worthwhile read for those interested in his work.


Quick quotes

    It's not like the books are depending for their interest on my having claimed to have some James Frey–like experience.

    It's all pretty ordinary, but that's the point.

    The essays are honest and revealing, offering a unique perspective on the human condition.

The New York Times · 2011-03-22
engaging 3.80

The nonfiction prose is engaging and reads like the work of a high-functioning slacker. The collection is a mix of humor and insight.

The New York Times reviewer describes Geoff Dyer's nonfiction prose as engaging and reminiscent of a high-functioning slacker. The collection 'Otherwise Known as the Human Condition' is a mix of humor and insight, offering a unique perspective on various topics. The reviewer appreciates Dyer's ability to blend wit and intelligence, making the essays both entertaining and thought-provoking. While some may find the style unconventional, it adds to the overall charm of the collection.


Quick quotes

    His nonfiction prose reads like the work of a high-functioning slacker, what you'd get if Janet Malcolm sent her genius-I.Q. son to prep school.

    Dyer's essays are a mix of humor and insight, offering a unique perspective on various topics.

    The collection is engaging and thought-provoking, showcasing Dyer's ability to blend wit and intelligence.