Why does Edward Said admire Joseph Conrad?

Edward Said (1935–2003) was a cultural theorist. In "Culture and Imperialism" (1993), he studied Joseph Conrad (1857–1924). Said admired Conrad for his honesty. He clearly showed the cruelty of the empire. Though limited, Conrad's view was deep. Said praised his moral insight and literary power. Let us explore why Said respected him.

Reveals Imperial Cruelty: Said admired how Conrad exposed the empire's damage. In "Heart of Darkness" (1899), he showed greed and violence. He presented imperialism as dark and hollow. Said praised this painful honesty. He explained it with this quote:

"Conrad's novel embodies the same paternalistic arrogance of imperialism that it mocks..."

Stuck Inside Empire: Though Conrad judged the empire, he stayed within it. Said believed this made his work real. He did not pretend to have solutions.