The Aesthetics of Disappearance

Exploring the concept of "picnolepsy," this work delves into the consciousness shaped by speed and its effects on perception. Virilio uses a range of cultural references, from cinema to notable historical figures, to illustrate the impact of speed on modern life. He connects the experience of living in a fast-paced society to themes of absence and disconnection. This edition includes a new introduction by Jonathan Crary, enhancing the discussion of visual culture and setting the stage for Virilio's later work on the intersection of war and cinema.