The St. Louis Republic. [volume] (St. Louis, Mo.) 1888-1919, 1903-08-29
A PLEA FOR TODAY.

Americans OF the pleasure-loving genera
ton are not given to regard the writings of
the time with deep seriousness. This is due
in some measure to the fact that at this day
reading has come to be numbered among the
chiefest and most general diversions. OF
course. it passes without mention that no
very philosophical considerations will be be-
slowed upon that which is mere pastime by
the mass of people Of any country or age.
Americana. however. without reference to
or lightness Of regard for present American
'literature'-the quotation marks perhaps
serve TO suggest tnat its literary quality is
accepted WITH some doubt or qualification.
The great reading public" it is true holds
Its popular authors in some esteem and q
measure of affection. But the American
opinion, into which enters not only the YER
diet of the general public, but the special
verdict of criticism, refuses to concede a
profound Importance to the contributions OF
A strong contrast Is seen In the attitude
Of the Germans toward their literature.
Taking themselves seriously always, they
view their works seriously, whether scien-
tifc. philosophical or romantic. The result
Is the fixed ideal, unalterable standard and
genuine earnestness OF purpose which char
acterizes German letters. In France like
wise is the contrast marked. There art
has its heroes and Its patriots sit were.
whose enthusiastic judgments are one with
affections. In England. though less strik-
Ing. the contrast is clear. There Is, il not
the German fixify of ideal and standard and
the German seriousness, at least the sin
cerity; and there Is the strong pride in
English achievements.
Certainly these comparisons are not fair
to the American people. America Is young
country, and age is essential TO the develop
ment OF q national art and pride in art.
But the contrasts are illustrative, throwing
into relief the chaotic spirit, absence OF
tradition. frivolity OF temper and careless
appreciation characterizing America and
Americans with respect to native literary
effort-especially at this time.
ago. there was exhibited in this country. If
not stronger literary tendency and aspira-
tion at least more thoughtful apprecia-
ton. Writer'S, taken as a whole. perhaps
booker" era, but the people and thu, critics
accorded them more serious attention.
Poe and his contemporaries were elevated
to something Ike the station of national
time there were voices in America audible
to Americans. There was priesthood Of
letters.
The fact that there are few. II any, voices
singers themselves. but it is probably due
also to the inattention Of an audience which
lacks real interest Not that substantial en-
enlargement y wanting. The American
ss sORs hearngtSey win IL grant Sny a tns
books. for fnstance-but they fan az that
intelligent. signal and Inspiring approval
upon which good works depend for present
vitality.
Il has become the fashion Of late years to
regard this as an ''age Of couamercialisu''
and to accept the stereotyped conclusions
which appear so frequently. that CONNER
c ess Nothing 70 iiterss nn tnat ne
-douhtedly II We are to accept these phrases
unreasoningly art may as well give un
There tsn.t much 70 stimulate or 1883