An Experiment in Criticism

In An Experiment in Criticism, C. S. Lewis offers a thought-provoking and unconventional approach to literary criticism. Instead of evaluating literature by traditional standards of quality, Lewis suggests that the true value of a book lies in how readers engage with it. He proposes that literature should be judged not by its inherent qualities but by the kind of reading experience it provides.

Lewis distinguishes between two types of readers: those who read to confirm their existing tastes and opinions and those who read to experience new perspectives and ideas. He argues that the latter, who approach books with openness and curiosity, gain more from literature, regardless of whether the book is considered "great" by critical standards.

With his clear and engaging prose, Lewis challenges long-held assumptions about literary judgment, offering a refreshing perspective on how we experience and interpret literature. An Experiment in Criticism is a must-read for students, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the relationship between reader and text. It encourages readers to broaden their understanding of what makes literature valuable and invites a more personal and reflective approach to reading.