Questions at Issue

Name: Questions at Issue
Author: Edmund Gosse

By Edmund Gosse

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About This Book

A collection of essays offering personal, conversational criticism of contemporary literature, arguing that critics should apply consistent principles while addressing unsettled questions of their own era. Topics range from the rise and dominance of the novel, democracy's influence on letters, and the state of poetry, to assessments of individual writers and movements such as realism, symbolism, and the works of Tennyson, Shelley, Mallarmé, Stevenson, and Kipling. The pieces balance historical perspective with immediate commentary, combine polemic and parable, and close with a satirical Lucianic sketch and reflections on literary institutions and reputation.

About the Author

Edmund Gosse

Edmund Gosse (1849-1928) was an English poet, author, and critic known for his insightful literary criticism and biographical works. He was a prominent figure in the literary scene of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing significantly to the understanding of contemporary literature. His notable works include "Father and Son: A Study of Two Temperaments," which explores the complex relationship between him and his father, and "Gossip in a Library," a collection of essays reflecting on various literary figures. Gosse's writings often blend personal reflection with broader cultural commentary, making him a key voice in the literary heritage of his time.