This study is concerned with the latest developments in the relationship between literature and the natural sciences. The first part revolves around a critical engagement with the 'science wars', and notably with the subject of 'rhetoric in the natural sciences'. Here an attempt is made to fathom the potential for productive interdisciplinary endeavour above and beyond the existing conflicts. Part Two casts a critical eye on recent positions in connection with the literary processing of scientific subjects and cultural interdependencies. This is followed by studies of literary texts in which a well-informed and creative approach to scientific concepts is discernible.