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The Awkward Squad: A Literary Phenomenon

Cody Russell

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Published in The Awkward Squad (MacLehose Press Editions 3)

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The Awkward Squad was a literary group of the 1930s and 1940s that included some of the most important writers of the 20th century, such as W.H. Auden, Christopher Isherwood, and Louis MacNeice.

The Awkward Squad (MacLehose Press Editions 3)

The Awkward Squad (MacLehose Press Editions Book 3)

by Sophie Hénaff

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1989 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	255 pages

The group was formed in 1932 at Oxford University, where Auden, Isherwood, and MacNeice were all undergraduates. The three writers shared a common interest in modernism and a desire to break away from the traditional literary establishment. They were also all openly gay, which made them outsiders in the conservative society of the time.

The Awkward Squad published their first anthology of poetry in 1935. The book was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish the group as one of the leading voices of the modernist movement.

The Awkward Squad's work was characterized by its wit, intelligence, and social commentary. The writers often explored themes of love, loss, and the search for identity. They were also known for their use of experimental techniques, such as stream-of-consciousness and collage.

The Awkward Squad disbanded in 1940, but its members continued to be influential figures in the literary world. Auden went on to become one of the most celebrated poets of the 20th century. Isherwood wrote several successful novels, including The Berlin Stories and A Single Man. MacNeice became a respected poet and playwright.

The Legacy of The Awkward Squad

The Awkward Squad left a lasting legacy on the literary world. The group's work helped to shape the development of modernism and it continues to be read and studied by scholars and students today.

The Awkward Squad also played an important role in the development of gay and lesbian literature. The group's members were among the first openly gay writers to achieve mainstream success. Their work helped to break down barriers and stereotypes and it paved the way for future generations of LGBTQ writers.

The Awkward Squad was a unique and influential literary group. Its members were some of the most talented writers of the 20th century and their work continues to be celebrated today.

The Awkward Squad (MacLehose Press Editions Book 3)

by Sophie Hénaff

4.1 out of 5