Hannah Proctor's 'Burnout' Examines Emotional Aftermath of Political Defeat Through Historical and Artistic Lenses

In her book 'Burnout: The Emotional Experience of Political Defeat,' released by Verso, Hannah Proctor delves into the psychological responses of activists following political setbacks. The work examines feelings such as melancholia, nostalgia, depression, and trauma that arise after movements falter, drawing on historical instances like the 1871 Paris Commune and the miners' strike of 1984-85. Proctor discusses the significance of psychotherapy, invoking Huey Newton's concept of 'revolutionary suicide,' and highlights artistic interpretations of defeat, particularly through the documentaries of Chilean filmmaker Patricio Guzmán, including 'The Battle of Chile' (1976-79) and 'My Imaginary Country' (2022). The book critiques optimistic rhetoric, promoting ongoing resistance. Juliet Jacques' review considers political fatigue following the 2019 UK general election and the COVID-19 lockdowns, addressing the emotional struggles faced by global activists.