Running Away from Myself: A Dream Portrait of America Drawn from the Films of the Forties

In "Running Away From Myself," Barbara Deming takes readers on a vivid journey through America as portrayed in the films of the 1940s. Through a mesmerizing blend of personal reflection and cultural critique, she explores the dreams and aspirations captured on the silver screen during a tumultuous era in history. The narrative is an evocative tapestry of images and emotions, painting a picture of a nation grappling with its identity in the aftermath of war and the onset of modernity.

Deming ingeniously weaves her own experiences with cinematic references, creating a rich dialogue between the personal and the collective. Her insights reveal not only the hopes and fears of a generation but also the ways in which film shaped and reflected societal norms. As readers delve into her dream portrait, they are invited to reflect on the complexities of American life and the enduring impact of its cinematic history.