The Annual Register Of World Events (volume 148)

Synopsis

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1907. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... RETROSPECT LITERATURE, SCIENCE AND ART IN 1906. LITERATURE. With regard to literary production, the year's output showed no symptoms of lessened activity, and the standard of previous years was well maintained. The tendency to mingle history and biography was more marked, and the idea of fixing interest upon a special period by a careful study of its principal leaders or actors was successfully realised in several instances. At the same time there appeared a number of books, showing considerable skill, in which the border-line between biography and fiction was difficult to determine. On the strength of some hitherto unpublished and contemporary documents, dramatic biographies of obscure persons who had played prominent parts in the political or social life of their times were put before the public in a form only compatible with fiction. The taste for essay-writing, which has been a prominent feature in English literature for generations, was displayed with more than usual strength by writers like Mr. Chesterton, Mr. E. V. Lucas, Mr. Herbert Paul, Mr. A. C. Benson, and several others. Inquiry into social questions, criticism of literary tendencies, and frank discussion of theological difficulties were the distinguishing features of these essays, which sometimes took the form of letters between imaginary correspondents. At the same time the output of books dealing more specifically with scientific and theological subjects showed no falling off, whilst the revival of interest in metaphysical philosophy was further marked. In fiction the supply seemed inexhaustible, suggesting a demand for work of this nature, regardless of its literary value. Among the competitors for public favour many who had already earned their spurs proved their claims to fuller recognition. A...