Backlog Studies Book Summary

Introduction

"Backlog Studies" is a seminal essay by American critic Van Wyck Brooks, first published in 1920. Originally delivered as a series of lectures at Columbia University, it later became a book. Brooks wrote during a period he considered a cultural low point in American history, following the perceived excesses of the Gilded Age and the cultural shift of the Progressive Era. He observed a decline in serious American literature and intellectual pursuits, feeling that the nation hadn't yet caught up culturally with European standards. The essay serves as both a critique of contemporary American culture and a call to action for rediscovering and studying the foundational works of American literature and history.

What is this book about?

"Backlog Studies" argues that American literature and culture were behind schedule in the early 20th century. While America was rapidly industrializing and becoming a global power, Brooks contended that its literary output and critical engagement were lagging significantly behind European standards. He lamented the lack of serious literary criticism, the prevalence of journalism and popular fiction over high art, and a general cultural myopia where Americans overlooked their own literary heritage in favor of imitating European models. The essay is essentially a plea for Americans to look back at their own history and achievements, particularly their significant contributions to literature, in order to understand themselves and move forward culturally.

Key Lessons

One central lesson is the danger of cultural lag. Brooks argues that a nation's literature and intellectual life should ideally keep pace with its material and political development. When literature lags, it can stifle deeper cultural understanding and national self-awareness. He points to the abundance of sentimental novels, dime novels, and sensational journalism as examples of low-quality cultural output filling the vacuum left by insufficient high-quality literary production and criticism.

Secondly, Brooks champions the importance of looking to the past. He argues that Americans, enamored with their rapid progress and future potential, often neglect the valuable insights contained in their own history and literature. He calls for a "backlog" study, urging readers to revisit and appreciate classic American works by authors like Hawthorne, Melville, Emerson, and Twain, whose depth and originality he saw as being overshadowed by the imitative and derivative works of the time.

A third key lesson is the need for rigorous literary criticism. Brooks criticizes the American academy and public discourse for lacking the depth and seriousness needed to evaluate and appreciate American literature properly. He believes fostering better criticism is crucial for elevating the cultural conversation and helping Americans develop a more sophisticated understanding of their own literary canon. Finally, the essay implicitly teaches about the relationship between culture and national identity. Brooks suggests that a vibrant literary culture is essential for a healthy democracy and a strong sense of national character.

Is this book fit for me?

If you are interested in the history of American literary criticism, early 20th-century American culture, or the relationship between literature and national identity, this book is essential reading. It provides valuable context for understanding the cultural debates of the time and the subsequent development of American literary studies. It is also a fascinating primary source for anyone studying the evolution of American intellectual life. Furthermore, if you are a writer, critic, or student of literature, Brooks' passionate plea for serious engagement with American literary heritage offers timeless insights. However, its dated perspective and occasional polemical tone might not resonate with everyone. Also, its concise format (it's an essay, not a full-length book) means it offers less detailed analysis than longer works on the topic.

Does it still matter today?

Yes, "Backlog Studies" absolutely still matters today. Brooks' central argument about cultural lag and the importance of engaging with foundational texts remains highly relevant. We continue to grapple with questions of American identity, the canon of American literature, and the role of criticism in a media-saturated environment. His call to "look back" to understand the present and future is a perennial concern. Moreover, his critique of journalism and popular culture sometimes eclipsing thoughtful analysis and literature has echoes in contemporary discussions about the quality of public discourse and the state of media. While the specific historical context is different, the underlying concerns about American cultural health and intellectual development persist. Brooks' work serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of literary and cultural self-reflection.

Conclusion

"Backlog Studies" is a concise yet powerful essay that captures a specific moment of anxiety about American cultural development. While delivered over a century ago, its core concerns—about the relative strengths of American versus European literature, the need for serious criticism, and the imperative to engage deeply with one's own history—continue to resonate. It is a foundational text for understanding early 20th-century American intellectual thought and a valuable resource for anyone interested in the trajectory of American literature and culture. For further exploration of the literary flowering that Brooks admired, consider reading F.O. Matthiessen's influential study "The American Renaissance," which focuses on the period of Emerson, Thoreau, Hawthorne, Melville, and Whitman that Brooks championed as a high point of American literature.