James Marriott. The value of being pretentious and the importance of the emotions to the intellect.
Aug 8, 2024
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James Marriott, a Times columnist covering literature, culture, and the millennial experience, shares intriguing insights on reading habits. He discusses why men should embrace novels, emphasizing their emotional depth rather than moral lessons. The conversation shifts to the cultural snobbery surrounding fiction versus nonfiction, and how literary works, from Iris Murdoch to Harry Potter, shape personal identities. Marriott provocatively reflects on pretentiousness in literature and the evolving nature of high culture in today's countercultural landscape.
Men should engage with novels not just for moral growth, but for their inherent entertainment value and emotional richness.
Literary fiction provides unique insights into the human condition, facilitating emotional understanding that complements intellectual knowledge.
The importance of literary criticism remains vital in today's culture, enriching dialogue and appreciation for literature beyond commercial success.
Deep dives
The Case for Novels Among Men
A significant point discussed revolves around the reasons why men should engage more with novels. The notion that novels are primarily a moral tool, intended to foster empathy and combat toxic masculinity, is challenged. Instead, the argument is made that novels should be appreciated for their inherent entertainment value and the enjoyment they provide regardless of their moral implications. Moreover, the distinction is highlighted between reading novels for self-improvement and experiencing them as rich, imaginative narratives that can still offer valuable insights about life.
Understanding Through Emotion and Imagination
The conversation delves into how novels facilitate understanding of the human condition through emotional engagement rather than mere intellectual knowledge. Novels help readers connect with experiences and emotions that they might not otherwise fully grasp, enhancing empathy in a unique way. The example of reading Elena Ferranti's Neapolitan Quartet is cited, demonstrating how such narratives allow readers to feel the realities of being an adolescent girl, enriching their understanding beyond mere facts. This emotional depth signifies a crucial aspect of literature that complements traditional non-fiction approaches.
Literary Status and Cultural Perception
The discussion includes a reflection on the cultural status associated with reading novels versus non-fiction, suggesting that men often gravitate towards genres that confer status and knowledge. The lack of perceived importance in novels can cause men to overlook their value in gaining life insights and enjoyment. Insights from the publishing industry indicate that men might shy away from novels due to their desire for concrete information that comes from nonfiction. This highlights a concerning trend where the worth of literary fiction is undermined by societal perceptions of what constitutes valuable reading.
The Impact of Harry Potter on Modern Morality
The influence of 'Harry Potter' as a cultural touchstone is explored, particularly its role in shaping moral frameworks for modern society. This series is portrayed as a contemporary equivalent to classic moral narratives, guiding readers on values such as diversity and acceptance. However, there is a critical reflection on how the simplistic moral allegories of Harry Potter could lead to a lack of depth in understanding complex societal issues. The discussion questions whether the series could contribute to a culture of narcissism, where everyone yearns to be special, echoing themes of modern discontent and emotional conflict.
The Evolving Landscape of Literary Criticism
The relevance of literary criticism in contemporary society is affirmed, with a recognition that while it might not drive book sales as forcefully as before, its intellectual and aesthetic contributions remain vital. Literary criticism is positioned as a unique form of writing that demands a comprehensive understanding of history and literature, asserting its value beyond commercial metrics. Individuals like Janan Ganesh are highlighted as exemplary figures in journalistic commentary, pushing the boundaries of writing and criticism. Overall, literary criticism is seen as an essential dialogue that enriches the cultural landscape, despite shifts in public engagement with literature.
What a delight to talk to James Marriott, the Times columnist who writes about literature, culture, and being a millennial. James is very well-read and we covered the ground from Iris Murdoch to Harry Potter, from why men should read novels to whether the crisis of modernity is actually modern. You can read James’s columns at the Times or see his Twitter feed here. I found James’ comments on the important of being pretentious interesting and they reminded me of what the philosopher Agnes Callard has written about aspiration, which I discussed in Second Act.
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