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The Novel, Who Needs It?

Name: The Novel, Who Needs It?
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4.4 of 5 Stars: History & Criticism - The Novel, Who Needs It?

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Book Synopsis: In this brief but highly engaging book Joseph Epstein argues for the primacy of fiction, and specifically of the novel, among all intellectual endeavors that seek to describe the behavior of human beings. Reading superior fiction, he holds, arouses the mind in a way that nothing else quite does. He shows how the novel at its best operates above the level of ideas in favor of taking up the truths of the heart. No other form probes so deeply into that eternal mystery of mysteries, human nature, than does the novel. Along the way, Epstein recounts how we read fiction differently than much else we read. He sets out how memory works differently in the reading of fiction than in that of other works. He notes that certain novels are best read at certain ages, and suggests that novels, like movies, might do well to carry ratings, with some novels best read no later than one’s early twenties, others not to be read before the age of forty.The knowledge one acquires from reading novels differs from all other kinds of knowledge, for the subject of all superior fiction is human existence itself, in all its variousness and often humbling confusion. The spirit of the novel entails questioning much that others consider home truths. This is demonstrated by the fact that so many important philosophers, social scientists, jurists, and other intellectuals have been devoted readers of fiction, among them Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., Michael Oakeshott, Edward Shils, and Clifford Geertz.The Novel, Who Needs It? takes up those current elements in the culture that militate against the production of first-rate fiction. Prominent among them are the rise of online reading, the expansion of creative writing programs, the artistically discouraging effects of political correctness, and the pervasiveness of therapeutic thinking throughout contemporary culture. As for the title, The Novel, Who Needs It?, Joseph Epstein’s answer is that we all do.

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Discover the power of fiction and unlock the secrets of the human heart with "The Novel, Who Needs It?" by Joseph Epstein. This gripping book asserts the incomparable importance of the novel in our pursuit of understanding human behavior. Immerse yourself in superior fiction that stimulates your mind like never before.

Unlike any other form of literature, the novel delves deep into the complexities of human nature, unravelling its eternal mysteries. Through this remarkable book, Epstein illustrates how reading fiction enhances our ability to comprehend profound truths and challenges previously held beliefs. Brace yourself for an intellectual journey like no other.

Fascinatingly, Epstein explores how our approach to reading fiction differs from other genres. He unveils the unique ways in which memory is shaped through the reading of novels, forever imprinting vivid stories in our minds. With insightful recommendations, he suggests that certain novels are best experienced at specific stages of life, enriching our understanding of the human experience.

With "The Novel, Who Needs It?", you will gain knowledge that surpasses all other forms of learning. By delving into the depth of human existence portrayed in superior fiction, you will achieve a profound understanding of the world and its complexities. Join the ranks of esteemed intellectuals, philosophers, and visionaries who have cherished the transformative power of fiction.

However, this masterpiece also sheds light on the challenges faced by the production of extraordinary fiction in today's cultural landscape. Epstein confronts the rise of online reading, the impact of political correctness, and the omnipresence of therapeutic thinking that hinder the creation of exceptional novels. Immerse yourself in a thought-provoking exploration of these contemporary obstacles.

So, why should you care about "The Novel, Who Needs It?" The answer is simple - we all do. By embracing this powerful book, you will unlock a world of unimaginable depth and meaning. Are you ready to embark on an enlightening journey through the wonders of fiction? Click here to seize this opportunity and explore the immense power of the novel.

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