Repulsive image: The idea of literature after Blanchot (original) (raw)

While it is known that Blanchot approaches philosophical issues by way of literature, it is important to remember that this is coupled to its reverse, which is just as significant: that he approaches literature by way of philosophy. This does not make him into a quasi-or pseudo-philosopher, for his concern is always centred on the literary, but what this coupling draws out is the manner in which Blanchot persistently pursues questions about the nature and status of literature, for which he draws upon an extensive philosophical awareness. Developing this understanding enables us to come to terms with the extremely focused mode of reading and writing that Blanchot has become known for, which leads him to ask what seem to be the same questions, and raise what seem to be the same issues, whatever fictional or critical work he is engaged in. The repetitive nature of Blanchot's writings has sometimes been seen as a failing, but what has to be borne in mind is that this repetition is the result of the necessarily persistent need to bring literature back to addressing questions about its nature and status, for these are the questions by which it persists, and also that, despite this repetition, he is singularly sensitive to what escapes these questions; what remains of the literary beyond the purview of philosophy. 1 While Blanchot's philosophical awareness has never been in doubt, this coupling uncovers its corollary; for if literature is approached by way of philosophy, then this has implications for philosophy, since its encounter with literature can bring about a difference in the way that philosophy proceeds; that is, a difference in thinking.