Author
Carl Van Doren
1885-1950
Carl Van Doren (1885-1950) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Carl Van Doren
Contemporary American Novelists (1900-1920)
"Contemporary American Novelists (1900-1920)" by Carl Van Doren is a critical examination of the development of the American novel during the early 20th century, written in the early 1920s. The book surveys notable writers and trends, focusing on how various novelists have responded to the prevailing literary movements, particularly naturalism. Van Doren discusses the evolution of character types and thematic concerns among these authors, reflecting on societal influences and the changing landscape of American literature. The beginning of this critical work sets the stage for an exploration of literary styles and movements that have shaped American fiction. Van Doren contrasts the remnants of "local color" writing with the emerging naturalism that has influenced authors such as Hamlin Garland and Upton Sinclair, among others. He introduces the notion that earlier literary conventions have become inadequate in the face of shifting social realities, leading writers to grapple more fiercely with the truths of human experience. Through discussions of prominent writers and their works, Van Doren aims to illuminate the complexities of American literary progress during a period marked by both innovation and continuity.
The roving critic
"The Roving Critic" by Carl Van Doren is a collection of essays and literary critiques written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the nature of criticism, exploring its various dimensions and the importance of vibrancy and life in literature. Van Doren examines notable figures in literature and their impact on society, emphasizing how literature reflects the human experience beyond mere adherence to morality, truth, or beauty. The opening of "The Roving Critic" introduces the concept of a fourth dimension of criticism, which is the vital question of whether literature is "alive." Van Doren proposes that the essence of great literature lies not solely in its goodness, truthfulness, or beauty, but in its ability to convey a sense of vibrant life. He discusses how many works, despite their moral flaws, resonate profoundly because they embody the human experience. The text also hints at the evolution of literary critique, setting the stage for deeper explorations of poetic and narrative forms across cultures and time. Overall, the beginning establishes the analytical lens through which Van Doren discusses various literary figures, suggesting a profound connection between the critic's engagement with the text and the life force inherent in the literary work itself.