Editor's Relations with the Young Contributor (from Literature and Life)   By: William Dean Howells (1837-1920)

In William Dean Howells’ intriguing collection of essays on Literature and Life, there is one particular piece that stands out, offering a unique perspective on the relationship between editors and young contributors. With sharp insights and astute observations, Editor’s Relations with the Young Contributor delves into the complexities of this often overlooked dynamic.

Howells, a renowned novelist himself, exhibits his profound experience in this field as he explores the various stages of a writer’s journey under an editor’s guidance. Through vivid anecdotes and personal anecdotes, he skilfully portrays the different archetypes of editors that young contributors encounter, ranging from the harsh critic to the benevolent mentor.

One of the book’s strongest points lies in Howells’ ability to capture the emotions and vulnerabilities experienced by young writers when subjecting their work to critical evaluation. With empathy and a keen eye for detail, he highlights the delicate nature of these relationships and acknowledges the immense power an editor holds in shaping a writer’s career. Through this exploration, he subtly raises questions concerning the responsibility held by editors in fostering the growth and potential of budding writers.

Moreover, the book expertly navigates through the evolving landscape of the publishing industry during the late nineteenth century. Howells hints at the shift from traditional publishing practices to a more democratic system that allowed young contributors to find platforms for their writing. This transition plays a crucial role in shaping the dynamics between editors and contributors, and Howells provides valuable insights into how these changes affected the creative process.

Editor’s Relations with the Young Contributor excels in its accessibility. Howells effortlessly combines his extensive knowledge of the literary world with a conversational tone, making the book approachable for readers from various backgrounds. Furthermore, his engaging writing style and relatable anecdotes impart a sense of camaraderie among aspiring writers, who are likely to find solace and encouragement within these pages.

Although the book‘s content is undoubtedly fascinating, its organization could be improved. Certain sections feel disjointed and lack a clear flow, which may require readers to piece together the underlying themes and ideas. A more cohesive structure would have enhanced the overall reading experience and made the book’s nuanced commentary on the editor-contributor relationship more accessible.

In conclusion, Editor’s Relations with the Young Contributor is a thought-provoking exploration of a relationship often overlooked in the literary world. Howells’ astute observations and empathetic approach provide valuable insights into the complexities of this dynamic, shedding light on the power dynamics and responsibilities that lie within it. Despite some organizational shortcomings, this book offers an enlightening read, not only for aspiring writers but for anyone interested in the world of literature and its intricate inner workings.

First Page:

The chances, naturally, are against the young contributor, and vastly against him; but if any periodical is to live, and to live long, it is by the infusion of new blood; and nobody knows this better than the editor, who may seem so unfriendly and uncareful to the young contributor. The strange voice, the novel scene, the odor of fresh woods and pastures new, the breath of morning, the dawn of tomorrow these are what the editor is eager for, if he is fit to be an editor at all; and these are what the young contributor alone can give him... Continue reading book >>