The Principles of Success in Literature By: George Henry Lewes (1817-1878)
In "The Principles of Success in Literature", George Henry Lewes offers a thought-provoking analysis of the art of writing and the fundamental elements that contribute to success in literature. This book serves as a comprehensive guide for aspiring writers, as well as an insightful read for avid readers seeking to deepen their understanding of literary craftsmanship. Lewes begins by emphasizing the importance of originality and individuality in writing. He highlights the need for writers to explore their unique voice and ideas, rather than succumb to the pressures of conforming to established literary norms. Drawing from numerous examples from classical and contemporary literature, he emphasizes that the true essence of a successful writer lies in their ability to create something that is authentically their own. Furthermore, Lewes delves into the significance of thorough research and meticulous attention to detail in literature. He argues that writers must immerse themselves in a wide range of subjects, disciplines, and experiences to enrich their writing. By incorporating a wealth of knowledge, writers can create works that engage and captivate readers, while simultaneously demonstrating a deep understanding of the world they inhabit. One of the most compelling aspects of "The Principles of Success in Literature" is Lewes' exploration of the role of emotions in writing. He delves into the intricacies of conveying emotions effectively, stressing the importance of evoking genuine emotional responses from readers. Lewes argues that by harnessing the power of emotions, writers can establish a profound connection with their audience, making their work unforgettable. While Lewes skillfully provides insights into the process of writing, he also delves into the critical reception and evaluation of literary works. He delves into the complexities of determining literary merit and suggests that rather than relying solely on personal preferences, readers and critics should seek to appreciate the diverse nature of literature, recognizing the different genres, styles, and cultural influences that contribute to the world of letters. "The Principles of Success in Literature" is intelligently organized, with each chapter building upon the previous one to create a coherent and persuasive argument. Lewes combines his own analyses with references to influential thinkers and writers of his time, making his book both informative and historically significant. Overall, "The Principles of Success in Literature" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the art of writing and the principles that underpin literary achievement. George Henry Lewes' profound insights and well-researched examples make this an enlightening and engaging read. Whether you aspire to become a writer or simply desire a deeper understanding of the craft, this book offers a compelling exploration of the principles that lead to success in literature. First Page: LITERATURE THE PRINCIPLES OF SUCCESS IN LITERATURE by George Henry Lewes This eBook was prepared by Roland Cheney. In the development of the great series of animal organisms, the Nervous System assumes more and more of an imperial character. The rank held by any animal is determined by this character, and not at all by its bulk, its strength, or even its utility. In like manner, in the development of the social organism, as the life of nations becomes more complex, Thought assumes a more imperial character; and Literature, in its widest sense, becomes a delicate index of social evolution. Barbarous societies show only the germs of literary life. But advancing civilisation, bringing with it increased conquest over material agencies, disengages the mind from the pressure of immediate wants, and the loosened energy finds in leisure both the demand and the means of a new activity: the demand, because long unoccupied hours have to be rescued from the weariness of inaction; the means, because this call upon the energies nourishes a greater ambition and furnishes a wider arena. Literature is at once the cause and the effect of social progress. It deepens our natural sensibilities, and strengthens by exercise our intellectual capacities. It stores up the accumulated experience of the race, connecting Past and Present into a conscious unity; and with this store it feeds successive generations, to be fed in turn by them... Continue reading book >>

The Principles of Success in Literature By: George Henry Lewes (1817-1878)

In "The Principles of Success in Literature", George Henry Lewes offers a thought-provoking analysis of the art of writing and the fundamental elements that contribute to success in literature. This book serves as a comprehensive guide for aspiring writers, as well as an insightful read for avid readers seeking to deepen their understanding of literary craftsmanship.

Lewes begins by emphasizing the importance of originality and individuality in writing. He highlights the need for writers to explore their unique voice and ideas, rather than succumb to the pressures of conforming to established literary norms. Drawing from numerous examples from classical and contemporary literature, he emphasizes that the true essence of a successful writer lies in their ability to create something that is authentically their own.

Furthermore, Lewes delves into the significance of thorough research and meticulous attention to detail in literature. He argues that writers must immerse themselves in a wide range of subjects, disciplines, and experiences to enrich their writing. By incorporating a wealth of knowledge, writers can create works that engage and captivate readers, while simultaneously demonstrating a deep understanding of the world they inhabit.

One of the most compelling aspects of "The Principles of Success in Literature" is Lewes' exploration of the role of emotions in writing. He delves into the intricacies of conveying emotions effectively, stressing the importance of evoking genuine emotional responses from readers. Lewes argues that by harnessing the power of emotions, writers can establish a profound connection with their audience, making their work unforgettable.

While Lewes skillfully provides insights into the process of writing, he also delves into the critical reception and evaluation of literary works. He delves into the complexities of determining literary merit and suggests that rather than relying solely on personal preferences, readers and critics should seek to appreciate the diverse nature of literature, recognizing the different genres, styles, and cultural influences that contribute to the world of letters.

"The Principles of Success in Literature" is intelligently organized, with each chapter building upon the previous one to create a coherent and persuasive argument. Lewes combines his own analyses with references to influential thinkers and writers of his time, making his book both informative and historically significant.

Overall, "The Principles of Success in Literature" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the art of writing and the principles that underpin literary achievement. George Henry Lewes' profound insights and well-researched examples make this an enlightening and engaging read. Whether you aspire to become a writer or simply desire a deeper understanding of the craft, this book offers a compelling exploration of the principles that lead to success in literature.

First Page:

LITERATURE

THE PRINCIPLES OF SUCCESS IN LITERATURE

George Henry Lewes

This eBook was prepared by Roland Cheney.

In the development of the great series of animal organisms, the Nervous System assumes more and more of an imperial character. The rank held by any animal is determined by this character, and not at all by its bulk, its strength, or even its utility. In like manner, in the development of the social organism, as the life of nations becomes more complex, Thought assumes a more imperial character; and Literature, in its widest sense, becomes a delicate index of social evolution. Barbarous societies show only the germs of literary life. But advancing civilisation, bringing with it increased conquest over material agencies, disengages the mind from the pressure of immediate wants, and the loosened energy finds in leisure both the demand and the means of a new activity: the demand, because long unoccupied hours have to be rescued from the weariness of inaction; the means, because this call upon the energies nourishes a greater ambition and furnishes a wider arena.

Literature is at once the cause and the effect of social progress. It deepens our natural sensibilities, and strengthens by exercise our intellectual capacities. It stores up the accumulated experience of the race, connecting Past and Present into a conscious unity; and with this store it feeds successive generations, to be fed in turn by them... Continue reading book >>

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