The Rise and Fall (and Rise?) of Literary Criticism

This essay explores the current state of literary criticism, tracing its lineage back to Henry James's sharp critiques of authors like Dickens. James believed that good criticism stems from a deep understanding and unique perspective on the work, not from superficial praise. The article points out that today's book reviews often lack depth and critical thinking, which not only harms the literary works themselves but also hinders further literary development. The author calls for a return to the Jamesian critical spirit: to examine works with professionalism and a unique perspective, thereby promoting literary prosperity.
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