The Preface: American Authorship in the Twentieth Century

The Preface: American Authorship in the Twentieth Century explores how prefaces have shaped the development of professional authorship in America, focusing on the changing landscape of the literary trade and the evolving reading publics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 07 November 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Building on insights from a diverse range of fields, including textual criticism, bibliography, narratology, authorship studies, and book history, The Preface: American Authorship in the Twentieth Century delves into the profound impact of prefaces on the development of professional authorship in America. These prefaces, penned by American writers across the twentieth century, serve as a valuable lens through which we can explore the evolving landscape of a trade that was characterized by tension, compromise, and a constantly shifting reading public. By examining the works of notable figures such as Willa Cather, Ring Lardner, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, Robert Penn Warren, and Toni Morrison, Ross K. Tangedal makes a compelling argument that prefaces were utilized by writers as a means of expanding and complicating their authority over their work, ultimately serving as a platform for them to reflect on and articulate their careers. Tangedal's innovative approach offers a fresh and insightful perspective on American writers during the dynamic and ever-changing literary marketplace of the twentieth century.

Introduction:
In the realm of literature, the preface holds a unique position as a critical component that not only introduces the reader to the work but also plays a significant role in shaping the author's identity and establishing their authority. Throughout the twentieth century, American authors have utilized prefaces to reflect on the evolving nature of the writing profession, negotiate the tensions between artistic expression and commercial demands, and engage with their readers on a personal level. This essay aims to explore the significance of prefaces in the development of American authorship in the twentieth century, with a particular focus on the ways in which they contributed to the shaping of professional authorship and the literary landscape.

The Shifting Landscape of Professional Authorship:
The twentieth century witnessed a profound transformation in the writing profession, marked by the emergence of a more self-consciously professionalized trade. Writers began to view themselves as artists and entrepreneurs, seeking to establish their authority and control over their work. The preface became an important tool for writers to articulate their vision, convey their artistic intentions, and establish their credentials within the literary community.

Authorial Authority and Self-Presentation:
Prefaces provided writers with an opportunity to assert their authority and establish their credibility as authors. By offering insights into their creative process, influences, and philosophical beliefs, writers could position themselves as experts and authoritative. Prefaces also allowed writers to present themselves in a way that was consistent with their artistic vision, allowing them to shape the way.

The Influence of Reading Publics:
The evolving reading publics of the twentieth century also played a significant role in shaping the preface. As the readership expanded and became more diverse, writers were compelled to adapt their writing to appeal to a broader range of readers. Prefaces became a means of engaging with readers, addressing their concerns, and responding to their expectations. Writers used prefaces to establish a connection with their readers, creating a sense of intimacy and trust that was essential for building a loyal following.

The Role of Prefaces in Career Development:
Prefaces also played a crucial role in the development of writers' careers. By reflecting on their past works and their growth as artists, writers could articulate their artistic trajectory and showcase their achievements. Prefaces provided a platform for writers to discuss their influences, challenges, and struggles, allowing them to gain insight into their own creative process and gain a deeper understanding of their own work.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the preface holds a vital place in the development of American authorship in the twentieth century. By providing a platform for writers to articulate their vision, establish their authority, engage with readers, and reflect on their careers, prefaces played a significant role in shaping the literary landscape of the time. Through the analysis of a selection of prefaces written by American authors, this essay has demonstrated the ways in which prefaces contributed to the evolution of professional authorship and the enduring legacy of American literature.

Weight: 318g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030851538
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021