Philip Hensher: How Can You Kill a Book Like That?
The Common Reader
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Philip Hensher and I discussed the history of the novel in Britain from Defoe to Hollinghurst. Philip is remarkably well-read and happy to share his real opinions. He can go from Swift to Fitzgerald on the turn of a pin, isn’t shy about holding his ground, and has some very firm views. People who read novels are protected against becoming violent. Ideas are not important in most novels. Walter Scott isn’t very good. Arnold Bennett is a top 20 novelist. Rachel Cusk has the best chance of being read in 100 years. That sort of thing.
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Arnold Bennett deserves new readers. Alan Massie & A.N. Wilson made a good case for Walter Scott. Hermione Lee has a new biography Anita Brookner.
Philip Hensher: How Can You Kill a Book Like That?
The Common Reader
1,499 views
Philip Hensher and I discussed the history of the novel in Britain from Defoe to Hollinghurst. Philip is remarkably well-read and happy to share his real opinions. He can go from Swift to Fitzgerald on the turn of a pin, isn’t shy about holding his ground, and has some very firm views. People who read novels are protected against becoming violent. Ideas are not important in most novels. Walter Scott isn’t very good. Arnold Bennett is a top 20 novelist. Rachel Cusk has the best chance of being read in 100 years. That sort of thing.
Some books I'm looking forward to reading based on Hensher's recommendations include Cecilia by Fanny Burney, Marriage by Susan Ferrier, and The Vet's Daughter by Barbara Comyns. Hensher will force even the most well-read among us to reconsider the history of the novel and, more importantly, stoke excitement/passion/fun.
Btw, I was surprised at how well the quickfire questions at the end worked - good call!