Lewis Hyde
Lewis Hyde is an American author and scholar known for his work on the cultural and social aspects of creativity and the commons. He is best known for his books 'The Gift: Creativity and the Artist in the Modern World' and 'Trickster Makes This World: Mischief, Myth, and Art.'
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
-
1. Common As Air
Revolution, Art, and Ownership
This thought-provoking work delves into the concept of the cultural commons, exploring how ideas, art, and knowledge have historically been shared resources that enrich society. It argues against the privatization of cultural assets, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balance between individual rights and the collective good. Through historical examples and philosophical insights, the book advocates for a renewed understanding of intellectual property, urging society to protect the shared cultural heritage that fuels creativity and innovation.
The 10886th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
2. The Gift
Creativity and the Artist in the Modern World
This thought-provoking exploration delves into the concept of gifts and their role in human culture, contrasting the commercial economy with the gift economy. It examines how gifts foster community, creativity, and connection, drawing on anthropology, literature, and mythology to illustrate the transformative power of giving. The narrative challenges the reader to reconsider the value of art and creativity, suggesting that true artistic expression is a gift that transcends monetary value and enriches both the giver and the receiver.
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
3. A Primer For Forgetting
Getting Past the Past
This thought-provoking exploration delves into the concept of forgetting, challenging the conventional view that memory is always beneficial. Through a blend of philosophy, history, and personal anecdotes, the narrative examines how forgetting can serve as a tool for healing, creativity, and liberation. It invites readers to reconsider the value of letting go of past grievances and memories, suggesting that forgetting can be an act of grace and a pathway to personal and cultural renewal.
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
4. Trickster Makes This World
Mischief, Myth, and Art
A cross-cultural exploration of the trickster archetype, showing how mischievous boundary-crossers unsettle norms, open closed systems, and catalyze creativity and social change. Blending myth, anthropology, and modern art, it traces tactics like lying, theft, and shapeshifting as engines of innovation that challenge property, purity, and hierarchy, arguing that such disruptions are both necessary and risky in renewing culture.
Purchase from Bookshop.org