How to Fail in Literature: A Lecture

Name: How to Fail in Literature: A Lecture
Author: Andrew Lang

By Andrew Lang

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About This Book

The lecture examines why people take up letters and catalogues common causes of failure, arguing that vocation alone is insufficient and that fear, doubt, lack of native power, weak style, conceit, and practical blunders doom many would-be authors. It stresses editors' frequent rejection of beginners, the benefits of a strict mentor or patient apprenticeship, and the difficulty of writing well while discouraged by repeated refusals. The speaker then offers broad principles and specific practices that almost ensure disaster, urging realistic ambitions and a sober sense of what modest literary success typically entails.

About the Author

Andrew Lang

Andrew Lang was a Scottish poet, novelist, and literary critic, known for his contributions to folklore and mythology. He is perhaps best recognized for his work "A Collection of Ballads," which showcases his interest in traditional narratives. Lang was a prolific writer, producing numerous essays and books on various subjects, including history and literature. His literary style often blended humor with scholarly insight, making his works accessible to a broad audience. In addition to his original writings, he is celebrated for his role in popularizing fairy tales through his collections, which have become integral to the study of folklore.