Clive James

Clive James was an Australian author, critic, broadcaster, poet, and memoirist. He was known for his wit and wide-ranging contributions to literature and television.

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. 1. Always Unreliable

    Memoirs

    The book is a witty and engaging memoir that chronicles the author's early life and journey from his Australian upbringing to his eventual settlement in London. Through a series of humorous and often self-deprecating anecdotes, the author reflects on his experiences, struggles, and the colorful characters he encounters along the way. The narrative captures the essence of his formative years, marked by a relentless pursuit of intellectual and artistic fulfillment, while also highlighting the cultural contrasts and personal growth that define his path to becoming a renowned writer and critic.

    The 8247th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 2. Reliable Essays

    The Best of Clive James

    This book is a collection of essays from a renowned critic, covering a wide range of topics from television to literature and reflecting his sharp wit and insightful observations. The author's unique voice shines through in each piece, whether he's discussing the state of modern television or the nuances of a particular piece of literature. His commentary is both thought-provoking and entertaining, making this collection a must-read for fans of cultural criticism.

    The 14983rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  3. 3. Cultural Amnesia

    Notes in the Margin of My Time

    "Cultural Amnesia" is a sweeping collection of biographical essays that explore the lives, works, and philosophical contributions of more than 100 significant figures in the 20th century. Spanning various fields, including literature, music, philosophy, and politics, the book delves into how these individuals influenced modern thought and culture, often in the face of political turmoil and social change. Through a series of insightful and meticulously researched essays, the author weaves together the threads of what constitutes cultural memory, celebrating the resilience of human creativity and intellect against the backdrop of historical amnesia.

    The 14983rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon