This post is part of the cult fiction series, this issue #5
A page from Graham Rawle’s Woman’s World
A collage novel is a form of experimental literature. Images or text clippings are selected from other publications and collaged together following a theme or narrative (not necessarily linear).
The dadaist and surrealist Max Ernst (1891–1976) is generally credited as the inventor of the collage novel. He published the collage novels “Les Malheurs des immortels” (1922, text by Paul Éluard), “La Femme 100 Têtes“ (1929), “Rêve d’une petite fille…” (1930) and “Une Semaine de bonté“ (1933–1934).
Recent examples include the 1970 novel A Humument[1] by Tom Phillips and Graham Rawle’s 2005 Woman’s World.
See also: cut-up technique, appropriation
An earlier example… “What a Life!” by E.V.L. & G.M. (E.V. Lucas and George Morrow) who used illustrations from Whiteley’s Catalogue and scissors and paste to illustrate the imaginary and eventful autobiography of an aristocratic Englishman. Published in 1911 by Methuen& Co.
Was later hailed as a pioneer work of surrealism and was the subject of an essay by Raymond Queneau.
A brilliant book, new edition published by Collins in 1987.
http://scruss.com/wal/title.html
Read it here!
Thanks Paul,
I’ve added the info to the collage novel entry. What a Life! reminds me of http://www.artandpopularculture.com/Glen_Baxter, I just love Baxter.
J