Beginnings Intention and Method

“Beginnings Intention and Method” by Edward W. Said is a thought-provoking exploration published by Granta Books in 1997. This New Ed edition spans 416 pages and is presented in English. The book addresses the question, “What is a beginning?” by integrating elements of history, philosophy, structuralism, and critical theory within the realm of literary criticism.

Readers will find that Said distinguishes between the concepts of beginning and origin, emphasizing that beginnings are secular and humanly produced, in contrast to the divine and mythical nature of origins. The work delves into the continuous re-examination of beginnings, offering insights into literary criticism while engaging with themes relevant to semiotics and political science. This edition invites readers to reflect on the nature of beginnings in various contexts, making it a significant contribution to the discourse on literary and critical theory.