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IN DEFENSE OF LETTERS by Georges Dutismel

IN DEFENSE OF LETTERS

By

Publisher: Greystone

The author of the Pasquier Chronicles and editor of the Mercure de France contributes some essays on literature today. The first part is devoted to the stagnation of the book world, in face of competition of movies and radio, and a discussion of advertising, lending libraries, etc., from the cultural rather than the commercial angles, Secondly -- on masters and oracles in literature, on success, genius, models, the role of politics in literature. Third -- notes on narration and story telling. Last -- a discussion of classical tradition, disciples, clarity and moderation. Duhamel is old school in his essentially humanistic viewpoint on books. Limited market.