How does Lawrence establish the superiority of the novel over the other forms of literature?
PremiumHow does Lawrence establish the superiority of the novel over the other forms of literature?
Or, why does D. H. Lawrence consider the novel superior to philosophy, science, or even poetry? Discuss.
In "Why the Novel Matters," published posthumously in the 1936 essay collection Phoenix, D.H. Lawrence (1885-1930) passionately argues that the novel is superior to other forms of literature because it captures the wholeness of life. Unlike poetry, philosophy, or science, which focus on specific aspects of human existence, the novel embraces the complete human experience—body, mind, and spirit. Lawrence explains this idea in simple but powerful ways. For Lawrence, the novel is not just a form of entertainment—it is the ultimate expression of what it means to be "man alive." Here we dive deep.
The Novel as the "Bright Book of Life":
"The novel is the one bright book of life." Holistic Representation of Life: Lawrence criticizes philosophers, scientists, and saints for focusing only on fragments of human life. Philosophers prioritize thought, scientists examine the body as an object, and saints overemphasize the soul or spirit. In contrast, the novel integrates all these elements. It shows people as complex, multi-dimensional beings. Lawrence highlights how the novel communicates not just ideas or ideals but also the sensations, instincts, and emotions that define human life. Full Play of Right and Wrong: One reason Lawrence finds the novel superior is its ability to portray the complexity of morality. In life, what is "right" in one situation may be "wrong" in another. The novel reflects this fluidity by giving full play to all aspects of human experience—bodily, mental, and spiritual. The novel shows how these elements interact dynamically in real life. This makes the novel more truthful and meaningful than other forms of literature; other forms of literature tend to simplify human experiences. The Novel's Ability to Awaken Life: Lawrence argues that a good novel has the power to awaken a person to their own aliveness. It can help readers recognize when they are "dead" or lifeless in their actions, relationships, or thoughts. For example, a person might go through life mechanically—eating, working, or even loving—without truly feeling alive. The novel, by portraying life in its fullness, can inspire readers to reconnect with their vitality and humanity. Lawrence writes in his essay:
"The novel... can help you not to be dead man in life." “The whole is greater than the part.” The Novel as a Guide: Lawrence sees the novel as a guide for understanding life. It helps readers see themselves not as fragmented beings but as whole individuals. By presenting characters who live fully, make mistakes, and grow, the novel teaches readers to embrace their humanity. To wrap up, D.H. Lawrence establishes the superiority of the novel by showing how it reflects the wholeness of life. Unlike other forms of literature, which focus on isolated aspects, the novel captures the essence of being alive. It portrays the complexity of human existence, inspires readers to live fully, and offers a truthful, holistic view of life.
The novel is a literary form that captures the totality of human existence. While other forms of literature might focus on abstract ideals or isolated emotions, the novel explores life in its entirety. It deals with humans as living, breathing beings, not just as carriers of thoughts, souls, or emotions. The novel, according to Lawrence, can make a person feel fully alive.
The Novel Versus Other Forms of Literature: While Lawrence acknowledges the value of poetry, philosophy, and science, he believes they fall short compared to the novel. For example, poetry may evoke love or sorrow, but it cannot capture the complexities of an entire relationship. Philosophy may explore the nature of existence, but it often neglects the physical sensations and instincts that are integral to being human. The novel, however, brings together all these dimensions. Lawrence argues:
The novel makes the most comprehensive and authentic representation of life.