The method of informal definition which I have
followed in all these essays is an attempt to open doors through
which both writer and reader may enter into a better comprehension
of what novelists, poets, and critics have done or are trying to
accomplish. More than an entrance upon many a vexed controversy
and hidden meaning I cannot expect to have achieved in this book;
but where the door would not swing wide I have at least tried to
put one foot in the crack. The sympathetic reader may find his own
way further; or may be stirred by my endeavor to a deeper
appreciation, interest, and insight. That is my hope.
New York, April, 1922.
CONTENTS
PREFACE
I. ON FICTION
SENTIMENTAL AMERICA
FREE FICTION
A CERTAIN CONDESCENSION TOWARD FICTION
THE ESSENCE OF POPULARITY
II. ON THE AMERICAN TRADITION
THE AMERICAN TRADITION
BACK TO NATURE
THANKS TO THE ARTISTS
TO-DAY IN AMERICAN LITERATURE: ADDRESSED TO THE BRITISH TIME'S MIRROR
THE FAMILY MAGAZINE
III. THE NEW GENERATION
THE YOUNG ROMANTICS
PURITANS ALL
THE OLDER GENERATION
A LITERATURE OF PROTEST
BARBARIANS A LA MODE
IV. THE REVIEWING OF BOOKS
A PROSPECTUS FOR CRITICISM
THE RACE OF REVIEWERS
THE SINS OF REVIEWING
MRS.
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