These words came over the transom from the author Udo Breger:
Brion Gysin is one of those dazzling figures of the 20th century whose life defies simple categorization. Born in England in 1916 as a Canadian and died in Paris in 1986 as an American, he led a life that spanned continents, cultures, and artistic disciplines. Painter, writer, photographer, inventor — and, time and again, a bridge-builder between worlds, languages, and forms of expression. His Basel roots may seem unremarkable, yet they form a quiet but enduring backdrop to a life marked by ruptures, new beginnings, and surprising twists. Brion Gysin was a recipient of the Order of Arts and Letters (Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres).
° ° °
This book depicts encounters with Gysin, shared journeys between London, Paris, Basel, Amsterdam, and New York, as well as conversations, projects, and moments that paint a portrait of this extraordinary man. It is a personal document, a space for remembrance, and at the same time an invitation to rediscover Gysin.
POSTSCRIPT: It should be pointed out that MEKTOUB is published in German. Mark Terrill is currently translating it into English, also to be published by Moloko. No release date for that edition has yet been announced. When the translation appears it will be noted here.
Leave a Reply