By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

David Mamet's latest offering, "The Disenlightenment: Politics, Horror, and Entertainment," is a perplexing amalgamation of political diatribe and cultural critique that leaves the discerning reader questioning both the author's intent and coherence. ([harperacademic.com](https://www.harperacademic.com/book/9780063455092/the-disenlightenment/?utm_source=openai))

Mamet, once celebrated for his incisive plays like "Glengarry Glen Ross," now appears to have veered into the realm of polemics, sacrificing narrative depth for ideological grandstanding. The book's premise—that America's elites have perverted institutions into tools of manipulation—is neither novel nor particularly insightful. ([harperacademic.com](https://www.harperacademic.com/book/9780063455092/the-disenlightenment/?utm_source=openai))

The prose is laden with self-congratulatory anecdotes and convoluted arguments that often lead nowhere. For instance, Mamet's assertion that "government, like Circe, turns men into swine" is emblematic of the book's tendency to rely on overwrought metaphors rather than substantive analysis. ([harperacademic.com](https://www.harperacademic.com/book/9780063455092/the-disenlightenment/?utm_source=openai))

Critics have noted a decline in Mamet's recent works. A review of his previous book, "Recessional," described it as a "pale facsimile" of his earlier brilliance, highlighting a "slapdash quality" and an "unearned confidence" in his writing. ([washingtonpost.com](https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/2022/05/06/these-disappointing-essays-david-mamet-cant-close-deal/?utm_source=openai)) Unfortunately, "The Disenlightenment" continues this downward trajectory.

Moreover, Mamet's shift from a liberal to a conservative stance has been met with skepticism. His critiques of liberalism often come across as reactionary rather than reflective, lacking the nuance that characterized his earlier works. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/stage/theatreblog/2011/jun/01/noises-off-david-mamet-theatre?utm_source=openai))

In conclusion, "The Disenlightenment" is a disappointing read that fails to offer meaningful insights or compelling arguments. Readers seeking thoughtful political commentary would be better served elsewhere.

Final Recommendation: Not recommended.

Recommendation: Not recommended.

written on: 6/12/2025