<pre><code>"By Love Possessed" was hailed at first as the great novel of its decade.  A few months later it was traduced as a symbol of Eisenhower-era 'middle-brow' complacency.  The second verdict stuck.
</code></pre>

<p>The problem was its message: it praised acquiescence rather than transformation.  It is indeed a 'novel of resignation'.  Is that a good thing?</p>

"By Love Possessed" was hailed at first as the great novel of its decade. A few months later it was traduced as a symbol of Eisenhower-era 'middle-brow' complacency. The second verdict stuck. The problem was its message: it praised acquiescence rather than transformation. It is indeed a 'novel of resignation'. Is that a good thing?

"By Love Possessed" was hailed at first as the great novel of its decade.  A few months later it was traduced as a symbol of Eisenhower-era 'middle-brow' complacency.  The second verdict stuck.


<p>The problem was its message: it praised acquiescence rather than transformation.  It is indeed a 'novel of resignation'.  Is that a good thing?</p>

Sneak Peek: "By Love Possessed"

From "Telstar" to "Vault of Horror," from Rattigan to Kerouac, from the Village of Bray to the Village of Midwich, help PZ link old ancient news and pop culture. I think I can see him, "Crawling from the Wreckage." Will he find his way? This show is brought to you by Mockingbird! www.mbird.com

Share Sneak Peek: "By Love Possessed"

Sign up to save your podcasts

Sneak Peek: "By Love Possessed"

Sneak Peek: "By Love Possessed"

More shows like PZ's Podcast

The Mockingpulpit

The Daily

The Mockingcast

Talkingbird

Conversations With Coleman