American Fictions, 1940-1980: A Comprehensive History and Critical Evaluation - Softcover

Frederick R. Karl

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0060911506 ISBN 13: 9780060911508

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, 1985

Synopsis

The late Frederick Karl was a prodigy, in terms of breadth, intelligence and productivity. Of the various books of his that I've read, and /or poked into, this remains the most impressive. An extraordinary work, and just one mega-tome amongst his numerous surveys and mega-biographies. (The listing at Wikipedia is seriously incomplete.) Much of Karl's criticism here is moral or/and political. He often faults various writers for their self-indulgence, lack of self-understanding and historical awareness. He is well aware of the deficiencies typical of both men and women, when they turn to fiction. Karl is more likely to discuss such topics than analyze technique. So you have to be comfortable with that approach to really appreciate this massive survey. Highly recommended to anyone interested in post WWII American literature.

About this edition

• Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
• Publication date: 1985
• ISBN 10: 0060911506
• ISBN 13: 9780060911508
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 637