Why etiquette governs the art of writing: Lolita, Ulysses, and the arrogance of genius | Martin Amis

TL;DR

Decorum in writing is about style suiting content, not good taste; experimental writers may transgress, risking reader goodwill.

Transcript

Decorum as a concept means “not offending”, “good taste”, and all that. And decorum in writing is a completely different concept. And all it means is that the content should suit—the style should suit the content. It has nothing to do with good taste. No writer worth anything is bothered by good taste. What is good taste? It’s a shallow consensus o... Read More

Key Insights

• 👋 Decorum in writing emphasizes the harmony between style and content, rather than conforming to established notions of good taste.
• 💍 Reader goodwill is vital for engaging and retaining the audience's interest, even for experimental writers who may transgress norms.
• ✍️ Leaving the path of social realism in writing is a statement of boldness, risking the established etiquette that governs the novel.
• 🤪 Writers must balance experimentation with reader engagement, as going too far can alienate the audience.
• 👻 Nabokov's hosting metaphor illustrates the writer-reader relationship as a cordial interaction, while Joyce's unconventional approach challenges traditional norms.
• ✍️ Social realism in writing provides a familiar structure for readers, but leaving this path can indicate a willingness to take creative risks.
• 👋 Good taste in writing is subjective and can vary between individuals or groups, with experimental writers often pushing the boundaries of conventional norms.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the concept of decorum in writing?

Decorum in writing is about ensuring that the style of writing fits the content being conveyed, rather than conforming to notions of good taste.

Q: Why is reader goodwill important in writing?

Reader goodwill is crucial as it keeps readers engaged; even experimental writers who transgress norms must retain reader interest to have an impact.

Q: What are the risks involved in leaving the path of social realism in writing?

Leaving social realism in writing is a bold move that risks straying from established norms of storytelling and the etiquette that governs social interactions in novels.

Q: How does experimental writing impact reader perception?

Experimental writing can challenge reader expectations and push boundaries, but writers must be mindful of not alienating readers and losing their goodwill.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Decorum in writing is about style fitting content, not adhering to shallow notions of good taste.

• Reader goodwill is essential; experimental writers may transgress norms but risk losing reader interest.

• Leaving social realism in writing is a bold move, risking the established etiquette of storytelling.