A review by orionmerlin
Trickster Makes This World: Mischief, Myth, and Art by Lewis Hyde

challenging informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

4.5

Credibility & Research: 9/10
Lewis Hyde’s exploration of the trickster archetype feels deeply researched and intellectually rigorous. He draws from an impressive range of mythology, anthropology, and literature, making connections that feel both well-founded and insightful. While his focus on Western and Indigenous trickster figures is comprehensive, some areas—such as African and Asian trickster traditions—receive comparatively less attention. Still, the book never feels agenda-driven, and the research is presented with a balanced, scholarly curiosity rather than ideological bias. Hyde’s use of primary and secondary sources adds legitimacy, though direct citations and footnotes are sometimes lacking.
Authenticity & Uniqueness: 10/10
This book is unlike anything else I have read on mythology or creativity. Hyde takes a well-known folkloric figure and recontextualizes it as a force that shapes not just myth but art, politics, and culture. His examination of how tricksters disrupt societal norms and generate creative breakthroughs offers a fresh way of understanding figures like Picasso, Duchamp, and Frederick Douglass. Rather than presenting mythology as static stories, Hyde shows how trickster figures continue to influence the world, making this an original and compelling contribution to cultural studies.
Writing Style: 8/10
Hyde’s writing is engaging, poetic, and often profound, but it demands focus. He blends storytelling with analysis in a way that rewards patience but doesn’t always make for an easy read. While his prose is elegant, some sections meander, making it difficult to stay grounded in his overarching thesis. The structure is more thematic than linear, which can feel fluid but also occasionally disjointed. That said, his ability to weave myth, philosophy, and cultural criticism together is impressive, and the book’s lyrical quality makes it feel almost mythical in itself.
Personal Impact: 9/10
This book fundamentally changed how I view creativity, rebellion, and the role of mischief in cultural progress. Hyde’s perspective on trickster figures as agents of necessary disorder resonated deeply, making me rethink how transgression and playfulness fuel innovation. His analysis of artists and historical figures through this lens reframed my understanding of their contributions. The book doesn’t offer straightforward "life lessons" but instead provides a more nuanced, transformative way of seeing the world. It stays with you long after you finish reading.
Intrigue: 8/10
The book kept my attention for the most part, though some sections felt denser and more abstract than others. When Hyde delves into mythology, his storytelling is captivating, but when he shifts into lengthy philosophical discussions, the pace slows. The mix of narrative and analysis is fascinating, but it isn’t always evenly paced. Still, the concept of trickster figures shaping art and culture is so compelling that I remained engaged, even when certain sections required extra effort.
Logic & Informativeness: 9/10
Hyde organizes his ideas in a way that feels intellectually rewarding, though not always linear. His arguments about the trickster's role in society and culture are well-supported, and he provides ample historical and mythological evidence to back his claims. While the book occasionally feels more like a collection of interwoven essays than a single, cohesive argument, each section contributes meaningfully to the whole. There’s no fluff here—every passage is rich with thought-provoking material.
Enjoyment: 9/10
I thoroughly enjoyed Trickster Makes This World. It is a book that challenges assumptions and encourages a deeper engagement with myth, art, and creativity. It’s not a casual or quick read, but for those willing to invest the time, it offers immense rewards. I would recommend it to anyone interested in mythology, philosophy, or the role of disruption in artistic and cultural evolution. Hyde’s writing is both intellectually and aesthetically satisfying, making this a deeply enriching read. 
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