In this article, we will delve into the book summary of Literary Feuds: A Century of Celebrated Quarrels – From Mark Twain to Tom Wolfe by Anthony Arthur. This captivating book explores the animosity and conflicts between literary greats throughout the past century, shedding light on the writer disputes that continue to captivate audiences today.
Key Takeaways
- Literary feuds have captivated audiences for the past century and continue to do so today.
- Literary rivalries often stem from jealousy, camaraderie, competitiveness, and different writing styles and philosophies.
- The feud between Mark Twain and Henry James, as well as that between Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald are among the most famous in American literature.
- More contemporary examples of writer disputes include those between Jonathan Franzen and J.D. Salinger, as well as some recent literary feuds that have captured public attention.
- The enduring impact of these writer disputes continues to shape the literary landscape today.
Introduction to Literary Feuds
Literary feuds are not a modern phenomenon. Born out of years of animosity and creative differences, these celebrated quarrels have been documented among literary greats for over a century. They have allowed readers to experience an intimate insight into the relationships and personalities of their favorite authors.
But why do literary feuds occur, and what impact do they have on the literary world? In this section, we will explore the reasons behind these bitter clashes, providing an introduction to the concept of literary feuds.
Mark Twain vs. Henry James
The literary feud between Mark Twain and Henry James is one of the most famous in American literary history. The two authors had different writing styles, with Twain favoring a more straightforward and accessible approach to literature, while James preferred a more complex and intellectual style.
The feud started in 1880 when Twain reviewed one of James’ novels, calling it “ponderous” and “pretentious.” In response, James criticized Twain’s use of vernacular language and labeled him as lacking in refinement.
“If he cannot emancipate himself from Missourian traditions, his case is hopeless.”
The feud between the two authors continued for many years, with each taking public jabs at the other. However, despite their differences, both writers recognized the other’s talent and contributions to American literature.
Ernest Hemingway vs. F. Scott Fitzgerald
Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald were two of the most prominent American writers of the 20th century and had a complex relationship that was marked by both camaraderie and competitiveness. While Hemingway admired Fitzgerald’s talent, he also resented him for his success and charm.
Their literary feud was built upon a foundation of jealousy and deep-seated insecurities. Hemingway believed that Fitzgerald’s writing lacked authenticity and criticized him publicly for it. Fitzgerald, on the other hand, resented Hemingway for his blunt and often cruel criticism.
“Ernest thinks the world is a two-handed engine, but it has four, and he doesn’t have the sense to realize it,” Fitzgerald once remarked about Hemingway.
Despite their disagreements, Hemingway and Fitzgerald remained friends throughout their lives, and their relationship was further complicated by their shared love interests and struggles with alcoholism. Ultimately, their lasting literary legacy and impact on American literature overshadows their personal differences, making them two of the most celebrated and significant writers of their time.
Continue reading to explore other fascinating literary feuds that shaped the literary world.
Truman Capote vs. Gore Vidal
Truman Capote and Gore Vidal were both accomplished writers in their own right, but their relationship was marked by animosity and public clashes. Capote once famously described Vidal as a “hack” and a “smut writer,” and Vidal responded by calling Capote a “perfectly terrible” writer.
Their feud reached its pinnacle when Capote publicly suggested that Vidal had been intimate with Beat author Jack Kerouac. Vidal denied the allegations and later said that Capote’s rumors were motivated by jealousy. Despite their public jabs, both Capote and Vidal continued to enjoy success in their literary careers.
“He has behaved toward me in a way I think no male adult writer would tolerate from another, but tolerable just maybe, in the interests of the Third World. He has the manners of a 19th-century whore.”
Despite their rivalry, both Capote and Vidal left a lasting impact on American literature and continue to be studied and revered today.
Norman Mailer vs. Tom Wolfe
Norman Mailer and Tom Wolfe were both renowned figures in American literature with distinct writing styles and philosophies. Their long-standing literary feud became celebrated in the world of literature and has been a subject of public fascination for decades. Mailer was an early pioneer of New Journalism, which brought a more subjective perspective to reporting and nonfiction writing. Wolfe, on the other hand, was known for his colorful language, bold experimentation with form, and his advocacy of literary realism. Despite their vastly different approaches, both Mailer and Wolfe were highly regarded by critics and fans alike.
The feud between Mailer and Wolfe began in the 1970s when Wolfe wrote a critical essay titled “Stalking the Billion-Footed Beast” that contrasted his own style of writing with that of Mailer, who he criticized for being overly self-aware and preoccupied with his own image. Mailer, in turn, accused Wolfe of being too focused on surface-level detail and sensationalism at the expense of depth and substance.
“I don’t like Tom Wolfe’s work. I don’t think he can write. He can’t write anything of depth. He’s one of the most superficial writers I know.”
Despite their disagreements, Mailer and Wolfe maintained a mutual respect for each other’s contributions to literature. The two writers even exchanged friendly correspondence throughout the years, demonstrating that their feud was a more public than personal affair. The longstanding literary feud between Norman Mailer and Tom Wolfe stands as a testament to the spirited debate and intellectual rigor that continues to define the world of American literature today.
Jonathan Franzen vs. J.D. Salinger
In the literary world, J.D. Salinger is revered for his unique writing style and his masterpiece, The Catcher in the Rye. Jonathan Franzen, on the other hand, is known for his contemporary novels that explore themes of family and social dysfunction. However, it was Franzen’s criticism of Salinger that ignited a feud between the two authors.
Franzen’s harsh criticism of Salinger’s reclusive nature and refusal to release new work sparked controversy in the literary world. Franzen accused Salinger of self-indulgence, claiming that he was more concerned with preserving his own image than creating new, meaningful work.
“The image of Salinger above all else is very problematic. He created this and he now embodies it. He is the greatest advertisement for reclusiveness that one could imagine.”
In response, Salinger’s daughter, Margaret, publicly criticized Franzen for his remarks, stating that he did not understand her father’s intentions.
“My father wrote for himself and he sent his work out for publication with trepidation. He always tried to protect his writing from being overexposed and becoming part of the cult of personality.”
Despite the controversy, Franzen has acknowledged the influence of Salinger’s work on his own writing. He has credited The Catcher in the Rye as one of the books that inspired him to become a writer.
However, the feud between Franzen and Salinger highlights the tension that can arise between authors and the impact their public statements can have on their relationship with their peers.
Recent Literary Feuds
While literary feuds have been commonplace throughout history, there have been several recent disputes that have caught the attention of the public. These feuds have often been sparked by controversial statements made by one author about another or disagreements about topics within the literary industry.
The Roxane Gay and Simon & Schuster Dispute
In 2017, Simon & Schuster made the controversial decision to publish a book by conservative pundit Milo Yiannopoulos. This decision was met with backlash from many in the literary community. Author Roxane Gay, who had previously published books through Simon & Schuster, announced that she would no longer be working with the publisher due to their decision to provide a platform for hate speech. This move sparked a larger discussion about the responsibility of publishers to promote diverse voices and the line between free speech and dangerous rhetoric.
The Jeanine Cummins and American Dirt Controversy
One of the most recent literary controversies involves Jeanine Cummins’ book American Dirt. This book, which tells the story of a Mexican mother and son fleeing to the United States, was accused of perpetuating harmful stereotypes and appropriating Mexican culture. Many critics argued that Cummins, who is not of Mexican descent, did not accurately represent the experiences of Mexican immigrants and that the publishing industry has a history of prioritizing white authors writing about other cultures over authors from those cultures.
The JK Rowling and Transgender Community Dispute
In a series of tweets in 2020, Harry Potter author JK Rowling ignited controversy when she expressed her views on transgender issues. Many in the transgender community and their allies accused Rowling of promoting harmful stereotypes and spreading misinformation. This sparked a larger conversation about the responsibility of public figures to use their platforms in a way that is inclusive and informed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Literary Feuds: A Century of Celebrated Quarrels – From Mark Twain to Tom Wolfe by Anthony Arthur provides a fascinating exploration of the conflicts and animosity between literary greats throughout the past century. From the rivalry between Mark Twain and Henry James to the clashes between Truman Capote and Gore Vidal, these feuds have shaped the literary landscape in unique ways.
By delving into the themes of jealousy, competitiveness, and camaraderie, Arthur provides insights into the complex relationships between these writers and the impact of their disputes. The book provides a compelling and insightful look into the world of writer feuds and their significance in shaping the literary world.
Overall, Literary Feuds is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of literature and the intricate relationships between the writers who have shaped it.
FAQ
What is the book summary of "Literary Feuds: A Century of Celebrated Quarrels – From Mark Twain to Tom Wolfe" by Anthony Arthur?
“Literary Feuds: A Century of Celebrated Quarrels – From Mark Twain to Tom Wolfe” by Anthony Arthur is a captivating book that explores the animosity and conflicts between literary greats throughout the past century.
What is the concept of literary feuds?
Literary feuds refer to the disagreements and conflicts between prominent writers. These quarrels have had a significant impact on the literary world and have often attracted public attention.
Who were involved in the famous feud between Mark Twain and Henry James?
Mark Twain and Henry James were two literary giants who engaged in a famous feud. The reasons behind their disagreements and the public reactions to their clashes are explored in detail.
What was the rivalry between Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald?
Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald had a compelling rivalry shaped by themes of jealousy, camaraderie, and competitiveness. This section delves into the intricacies of their relationship.
What characterized the relationship between Truman Capote and Gore Vidal?
Truman Capote and Gore Vidal had a contentious relationship marked by provoking remarks and public clashes. This section uncovers the key aspects of their feud.
Who were Norman Mailer and Tom Wolfe, and what fueled their feud?
Norman Mailer and Tom Wolfe were prominent figures in American literature with contrasting styles and philosophies. This section explores the long-standing rivalry between these two authors.
What was the clash between Jonathan Franzen and J.D. Salinger?
The influence of J.D. Salinger on Jonathan Franzen resulted in a clash between the two authors. This section examines the impact of Salinger’s reclusive nature on Franzen’s literary career.
What are some notable recent literary feuds?
This section discusses contemporary literary feuds that have captured public attention. Notable examples are explored, along with the reasons behind these disputes.
How does the article conclude?
The final section provides a summary of the key points discussed throughout the article and reflects on the significance of these literary feuds. It emphasizes the enduring impact of writer disputes on the literary landscape.
