Shadows of Reality A Catalog of W.G. Sebald’s Photographic Materials: Scott & Warr

A behind-the-scenes look at the author's creative process

Unusual compared to past writing subjects, but just as influential is a reference-like book of W.G. Sebald’s photos from novels, poetry, and more. I was first introduced to Sebald’s work through Austerlitz and was captured by the natural incorporation of photographic imagery in fiction. It’s as if the writing drew inspiration from the images. In Austerlitz’s case, the images were narratively captured or collected by the titular character.

The hefty book is forwarded by a series of essays on “Writing with Photographs”, selected excerpts from Sebald public appearances, interviews with photographic collaborators, and artistic review of his use of flash. One anecdote that I found interesting was how Sebald would ask those close to him to review if they had seen a particular image before. If so, it was cast aside from inclusion. He was drawn to images with which one has no connection as if they ask to be looked at. “This is what Roland Barthes calls ‘punctum’, when a photograph for some not immediately apprent reason lacerates or pricks us.”

The last two-thirds are a encyclopedic collection of found images, contact sheets, travel collections taken by the author. One may consider his photography amateur, and they may be correct, but there is a depth of curiosity to be found. This expansive behind-the-scenes look is a treat to learn more about where published images came from and how they were selected.