The Art of Fiction was written by Walter Besant.
Walter Besant's influential essay, The Art of Fiction, was originally delivered as a lecture at the Royal Institution in 1884. This work ignited a significant literary debate regarding the nature and purpose of novel writing in the late 19th century.
Understanding Walter Besant's 'The Art of Fiction'
Besant, a prolific novelist and social reformer of his time, approached fiction writing with a clear and practical perspective. He argued for the professionalization of the craft, emphasizing that novel writing was not merely a matter of inspiration but a skill that could be learned and refined through diligent practice and adherence to certain principles.
Key Tenets of Besant's Argument:
- Fiction as a Fine Art: Besant asserted that fiction deserved to be recognized as a serious art form, comparable to painting or sculpture, demanding respect and rigorous application.
- Teachability of the Craft: He believed that the techniques of novel writing, such as plot construction, character development, and dialogue, could be taught and mastered, much like any other artistic discipline.
- Importance of Observation and Research: Besant stressed the necessity for authors to observe life keenly and conduct thorough research to ensure authenticity and realism in their narratives.
- Ethical Responsibility: He suggested that fiction writers had a moral obligation to present a wholesome and uplifting view of life, avoiding anything that might be considered vulgar or demoralizing.
Besant's direct and prescriptive approach resonated with many, especially aspiring writers seeking guidance, but it also provoked a famous counter-argument from another literary giant of the era.
A Literary Dialogue: Besant vs. James
Perhaps the most significant aspect of Besant's essay is the critical response it elicited from the renowned American novelist Henry James. James published his own essay, also titled "The Art of Fiction," shortly after Besant's, offering a contrasting, more nuanced view on the subject.
The table below highlights the core differences in their perspectives:
| Aspect | Walter Besant's View | Henry James's View |
|---|---|---|
| Nature of Fiction | A teachable craft, a liberal art. | A personal, intuitive art; "the large, free, imaginative, moral game." |
| Writer's Role | Requires training, observation, specific techniques. | Emphasizes freedom, sincerity, and experience of life. |
| Morality/Purpose | Should be wholesome, instructive, and uplifting. | Morality is inherent in truthfulness; artistic freedom is paramount. |
| Realism | Achieved through meticulous observation and facts. | Achieved through the artist's imaginative perception. |
While Besant's essay laid out a structured framework for fiction writing, James's response championed the autonomy and subjective vision of the artist, advocating for a broader, less prescriptive understanding of the novelist's task. This literary exchange remains a cornerstone in discussions about the craft and philosophy of fiction.
Today, The Art of Fiction by Walter Besant is primarily studied for its historical significance and its role in sparking one of the most important literary debates of the 19th century. It provides valuable insight into the prevailing attitudes towards literature and the creative process during that period.
