About the book
“If you want to write, paint, sing, compose, act, or make films, read The Gift.” —from the Introduction by Margaret Atwood
A modern classic cherished by many of the greatest artists of our time and a brilliant, life-changing defense of the value of creative labor.
Drawing on examples from folklore and literature, history and tribal customs, economics and modern copyright law, Lewis Hyde demonstrates how our society—governed by the marketplace—is poorly equipped to determine the worth of artists’ work. He shows us that another way is possible: the alternative economy of the gift, which allows creations and ideas to circulate freely, rather than hoarding them as commodities.
Illuminating and transformative, The Gift is a triumph of originality and insight—an essential book for anyone who has ever given or received a work of art.
Editions of The Gift
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780394715193
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781984897787
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780307279507
- EBook
- ISBN 9780307567604
- EBook
- ISBN 9781984897794
Read an Excerpt
“If you want to write, paint, sing, compose, act, or make films, read The Gift.” —from the Introduction by Margaret Atwood
A modern classic cherished by many of the greatest artists of our time and a brilliant, life-changing defense of the value of creative labor.
Drawing on examples from folklore and literature, history and tribal customs, economics and modern copyright law, Lewis Hyde demonstrates how our society—governed by the marketplace—is poorly equipped to determine the worth of artists’ work. He shows us that another way is possible: the alternative economy of the gift, which allows creations and ideas to circulate freely, rather than hoarding them as commodities.
Illuminating and transformative, The Gift is a triumph of originality and insight—an essential book for anyone who has ever given or received a work of art.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Gift about?
“If you want to write, paint, sing, compose, act, or make films, read The Gift.” —from the Introduction by Margaret Atwood
A modern classic cherished by many of the greatest artists of our time and a brilliant, life-changing defense of the value of creative labor.
Drawing on examples from folklore and literature, history and tribal customs, economics and modern copyright law, Lewis Hyde demonstrates how our society—governed by the marketplace—is poorly equipped to determine the worth of artists’ work. He shows us that another way is possible: the alternative economy of the gift, which allows creations and ideas to circulate freely, rather than hoarding them as commodities.
Illuminating and transformative, The Gift is a triumph of originality and insight—an essential book for anyone who has ever given or received a work of art.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in The Gift?
Health, Relationships and Personal development > Self-help, personal development and practical advice > Popular psychology > Memory improvement and thinking techniques
Where can I read a sample of The Gift?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780394715193
Who is/are the Author/s of the book The Gift?
Lewis Hyde
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
The Gift is available as paperback(ISBN 9780394715193) and paperback(ISBN 9781984897787) and paperback(ISBN 9780307279507) and ebook(ISBN 9780307567604) and ebook(ISBN 9781984897794)
Where can I buy The Gift online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy The Gift from below
Where can I buy The Gift?