A much needed, illuminating and beautifully-written book. Philosophical and Lacanian concepts that typically remain mired in obscurity spring to life in Penney’s text. A more masterly treatment of the relationship between the writings of Lacan and Genet – indeed, between psychoanalysis and poetry – will not be forthcoming.

Derek Hook, Professor of Psychology, Duquesne University, United States

Penney engages the most significant readings of Genet's work while offering fresh analyses of his own. The latter derive their subtety and strength from the vigilant attention they give to the wobbly, disjunct, relations that unite sexual pleasure and language. Political structures, Penney shows, sway with this imbalance.

Joan Copjec, Professor of Modern Culture & Media, Brown University, United States

James Penney's book is a delightfully fresh account of Jean Genet, whose work seems to be gaining in relevance as time goes on. Remarkably rich in detail and insight, the book presents us with a compelling rendering of Genet's ontology and a powerful theory of the poetic act.

Alenka Zupancic, Professor of Philosophy and Psychoanalysis, The European Graduate School, Switzerland