Gerhard Richter's study is so effective that it exceeds its own intentions and opens up an illumination of language in our times as well as in Benjamin's. - Michigan Germanic Studies ""As the first full-scale study of Benjamin's practice of autobiography in any language, Gerhard Richter's admirable work performs a major scholarly service."" - Peter Fenves, Northwestern University ""This text is magisterial.... [It] renews one's amazement at the power and beauty of Benjamin's thinking. I rate this work very highly."" - James Rolleston, Duke University ""... a remarkable achievement."" - Michael Jennings, Princeton University