Letters from Tomis

O’Flynn, Paul. Them and Us in Literature. Pluto Press, 1975.

Paul O’Flynn’s Them and Us in Literature is a compelling and incisive exploration of how literature has historically negotiated the boundaries of identity, power, and otherness. O’Flynn weaves together a wide array of texts—from classical literature to modern narratives—demonstrating how the dynamics of inclusion and exclusion are central to the literary imagination.

What makes this work particularly valuable is its interdisciplinary approach. O’Flynn draws on historical, sociological, and philosophical perspectives to illuminate the literary texts he examines. His prose is both accessible and intellectually rigorous, making this book suitable for advanced undergraduates, postgraduates, and scholars alike.

One of the most commendable aspects of Them and Us in Literature is its balanced critique. Rather than merely condemning or celebrating portrayals of “the other,” O’Flynn invites readers to consider the structural and cultural forces that shape these portrayals. His analysis of canonical works is especially insightful, offering fresh interpretations that challenge traditional readings while remaining respectful of literary nuance.

In a time when discussions of identity and division are increasingly urgent, this book provides a timely and thoughtful contribution to literary studies. It encourages critical engagement with the texts we read and the societies we inhabit, making it an essential resource for anyone interested in literature’s role in shaping—and questioning—our ideas of “us” and “them.”