Adventures in Criticism

"Adventures in Criticism" by Arthur Quiller-Couch is a collection of critical essays written in the late 19th century. The work explores various aspects of English literature, focusing on renowned authors, poets, and their contributions to the literary world. Through these essays, the author examines the intersection of personal experience, literary analysis, and cultural context in shaping literary appreciation and criticism. The opening of the collection serves as a dedication to A.B. Walkley and provides insight into the author's motivations for compiling these essays. In a reflective tone, Quiller-Couch shares how his writings, originally published in "The Speaker", reveal his commitment to literature and the influence of fellow writers on his thought process. He highlights the importance of engaging critically with literature, as well as the joy of rediscovery that comes with revisiting familiar works. Through engaging prose, he sets the stage for a discussion on literary figures such as Chaucer, Shakespeare, and others, emphasizing both admiration for their artistry and the need for critical understanding. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Sir Arthur Thomas Quiller-Couch was a British writer who published using the pseudonym Q. Although a prolific novelist, he is remembered mainly for the monumental publication The Oxford Book of English Verse 1250–1900 and for his literary criticism. He influenced many who never met him, including American writer Helene Hanff, author of 84, Charing Cross Road and its sequel, Q's Legacy. His The Oxford Book of English Verse was a favourite of John Mortimer's fictional character Horace Rumpole.