I have to begin this review by saying I am a huge fan of Jacques Barzun. After being introduced to him through reading Dawn of Decadence when it was published I have read as many of his books as I can find. He has an acute sense of culture and history and is a straight forward writer. I was not disappointed in this book. There are six chapters that were each a lecture given as part of the A. W. Mellon Lectures in the Fine Arts. Barzun has insights into the development of modern art that seem right on. I teach an omnibus class that discusses art and I learned so much by reading this book that I can't wait to share in class. I do wonder what further insights Barzun has about art since 30 plus years have passed since he wrote it in 1973. If you are interested in the state of art and wonder how we got to the point we are today read it for some thought provoking ideas ( )

(2600 words) http://cburrell.wordpress.com/2008/02...