People used to expect literary novels to deepen the experience of living; now they are happy with any sustained display of writerly cleverness.
This quote highlights a shift in literary values over time. Historically, novels were seen as a means to explore human nature, deepen understanding, and enrich our perception of life. Today, however, there seems to be a greater appreciation for authorship that emphasizes wit, intricate language, and clever stylistic devices rather than profound insights. This change may reflect broader cultural trends that prioritize entertainment and surface-level engagement over meaningful reflection. Such a shift can impact the depth of contemporary literature, potentially leading to works that are more about impressing the reader with technique rather than fostering genuine understanding or connection. It's worth contemplating how this shift influences readers' experiences and expectations from literature.
