Written By Literary criticism has always been a contentious field, with critics and authors alike often engaging in heated debates over the merits of a particular work. However, some critics have taken this to the next level, crafting scathing takedowns of books, authors, and even entire literary movements. These columns have become legendary in the world of literature, showcasing the power of the written word to both praise and condemn.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most famous literary takedowns in history, examining what made them so effective and why they continue to be studied and discussed today.
The Anatomy of a Takedown
Before we dive into specific examples, it’s worth examining what makes a takedown so effective. At its core, a takedown is a critique that goes beyond mere criticism, seeking to expose flaws and weaknesses in a work or author’s entire body of work. A good takedown is not just a negative review, but a persuasive argument that convinces readers that the work in question is not worth their time or attention.
To achieve this, takedowns often employ a variety of rhetorical techniques, including sarcasm, irony, and hyperbole. They may also draw on historical or cultural context to make their points, or use personal anecdotes to illustrate their arguments. Ultimately, the goal of a takedown is to persuade readers that the work in question is not just bad, but actively harmful to the literary canon.
Famous Takedowns in Literature
With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most famous literary takedowns in history.
1. Dorothy Parker’s review of A. A. Milne’s “The House at Pooh Corner”
In this scathing review, Parker takes aim at Milne’s beloved children’s classic, calling it “one of the dullest books I have ever read.” She goes on to criticize the book’s lack of plot, character development, and humor, concluding that “it is that word ‘hummy,’ my darlings, that marks the first place in The House at Pooh Corner at which Tonstant Weader fwowed up.”
Parker’s review is a masterclass in sarcasm and irony, using humor to make her point while also highlighting the book’s flaws. It remains one of the most famous literary takedowns of all time.
2. James Wood’s review of Zadie Smith’s “White Teeth”
In this review, Wood takes on Smith’s debut novel, which had been widely praised for its portrayal of multicultural London. Wood, however, argues that the book is “hysterically funny, sometimes clever, and often touching, but… also a mass of cliches.”
Wood’s takedown is notable for its use of close reading and literary analysis, as he dissects the book’s themes and motifs to make his point. He also draws on his own experiences as a critic to argue that the book’s flaws are symptomatic of a larger problem in contemporary literature.
3. Dale Peck’s review of Rick Moody’s “The Black Veil”
Peck’s review of Moody’s novel is perhaps the most infamous literary takedown of all time. In it, he calls Moody “the worst writer of his generation” and goes on to criticize the book’s plot, characters, and prose style in excruciating detail.
Peck’s takedown is notable for its sheer vitriol, as he spares no one in his criticism of the book. However, it’s also notable for its use of close reading and literary analysis, as Peck dissects the book’s flaws with surgical precision.
Conclusion
Literary takedowns are not for the faint of heart, but when done well, they can be some of the most effective and memorable pieces of criticism in the literary canon. Whether through sarcasm, irony, or close reading, these takedowns have the power to persuade readers that a particular work or author is not worth their time or attention. As such, they remain an important part of the literary landscape, reminding us of the power of the written word to both praise and condemn.
