Mikhail Bakhtin's ideas have influenced thinking in literary studies, anthropology, linguistics, psychology and social theory. Michael Holquist argues that Bakhtin's work gains coherence through his commitment to the concept of dialogue. With only two comprehensive accounts of Bakhtins contributions available in the West ... Holquists attempt to provide a contextualized summary of Bakhtins work is a formidable accomplishment in its own right, resulting in a volume that will be of interest for those seeking a unified, general understanding of Bakhtin.