Flannery O'Connor and Edward Lewis Wallant: Two of a Kind : Book Review

"Flannery O'Connor and Edward Lewis Wallant" by John V. McDermott offers a thought-provoking exploration of the works of these two acclaimed American authors. McDermott delves deep into the themes, styles, and influences that shaped the literary contributions of Flannery O'Connor and Edward Lewis Wallant, shedding light on their unique perspectives on faith, morality, and the human condition.

With meticulous analysis, McDermott uncovers the complexity of O'Connor and Wallant's characters and the depth of their narratives. He skillfully reveals the religious undertones present in their works, examining the impact of Catholicism on their storytelling. Furthermore, McDermott illuminates how these authors confront important ethical dilemmas, challenging societal norms through their keen observations.

Through engaging and insightful prose, McDermott invites readers to immerse themselves in the social and historical contexts that influenced O'Connor and Wallant's writing. He explores how their upbringing and personal experiences shaped their creative processes, offering valuable perspectives on their literary achievements. The book also delves into the critical reception that O'Connor and Wallant received both during their lifetimes and in subsequent years, providing a well-rounded understanding of their enduring literary legacies.

One admirable aspect of this book is McDermott's seamless blending of literary analysis with biographical information. By intertwining the personal histories of O'Connor and Wallant with their literary accomplishments, he creates a vivid portrait of these remarkable writers. Consequently, the book serves not only as an exploration of their works, but also as a fascinating study of their lives.

In conclusion, "Flannery O'Connor and Edward Lewis Wallant" is a captivating and enlightening read for fans of either author, as well as anyone interested in American literature. McDermott's meticulous research and thoughtful analysis make this book an essential addition to the collection of any literary enthusiast.

What are readers saying?

John V. McDermott's book "Flannery O'Connor and Edward Lewis Wallant" has garnered a mix of responses from readers. On the whole, readers appreciate McDermott's examination of the literary works and careers of Flannery O'Connor and Edward Lewis Wallant, finding the book both informative and analytically rich. Many commend the author for shedding light on lesser-known aspects of the authors' lives and writings, deepening their understanding and appreciation of their work.

That said, there are some criticisms regarding McDermott's writing style and organization. Some readers feel that the book lacks a clear structure, making it challenging to follow the arguments and ideas presented. They note that the book has a tendency to jump between different topics, leading to confusion and frustration.

In addition, some readers find McDermott's analysis to be overly academic and dense, potentially alienating a more general audience. They suggest that the book may be better suited for scholars or those well-versed in literary criticism, rather than casual readers seeking to learn more about O'Connor and Wallant.

A few reviewers express disappointment with the book's limited scope and depth. They believe that McDermott's analysis falls short in thoroughly exploring the authors' works. They had hoped for a more comprehensive examination, yet they find the book lacking in this regard.

Overall, "Flannery O'Connor and Edward Lewis Wallant" by John V. McDermott provides insightful but imperfect insights into the literary works and careers of these two authors. While it offers valuable analyses, the book's disorganized structure, dense writing style, and limited breadth may limit its appeal to a broader audience.

FlanneryOConnor EdwardLewisWallant LiteraryMasters