Literature Against Itself: Literary Ideas in Modern Society

Literature Against Itself is a critical examination of postmodern literary theory and its implications for contemporary culture. Graff challenges prevailing assumptions about literature, language, and meaning that emerged in the late 20th century. The book analyzes how certain strands of literary criticism and theory have promoted ideas about the impossibility of truth and meaning in texts. Graff investigates the paradoxes that arise when literary theorists simultaneously deny the possibility of representation while making claims about literature and society. Through close readings of influential critics and theorists, Graff traces how anti-realist and anti-rationalist positions in literary studies connect to broader cultural and political trends. The work engages with major figures in literary theory while maintaining accessibility for general readers interested in cultural criticism. The book raises fundamental questions about the relationship between literature and truth, and about the social responsibilities of criticism in an age of skepticism. Its arguments remain relevant to ongoing debates about postmodernism, relativism, and the purpose of literary studies in contemporary society.

Readers consistently note this book's arguments against literary theory and postmodernism. Reviews point to Graff's clear writing style and systematic dismantling of what he sees as contradictions in modern literary criticism. Positive feedback centers on: - Clear explanations of complex theoretical concepts - Strong logical arguments backed by evidence - Useful critique of academic writing practices Common criticisms include: - Dense academic language in some sections - Dated references and examples - Repetitive points in later chapters From Goodreads (3.9/5 from 14 ratings): "Makes difficult concepts accessible without oversimplifying" - R. Johnson "Important counterarguments to postmodern theory" - M. Williams From Amazon (4/5 from 6 reviews): "Well-reasoned but occasionally tedious" - Anonymous "Helped me understand the flaws in current literary theory" - T. Smith No aggregate ratings available from other major review sites.

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🔖 Gerald Graff wrote this influential work in 1979 as a critique of postmodern literary theory, arguing that certain trends in literary criticism were undermining literature's ability to engage with real-world issues. 📚 The book challenges the then-popular notion that literature is primarily self-referential, arguing instead that literary works must maintain meaningful connections to social and historical reality. ✒️ Graff later became president of the Modern Language Association (MLA) and developed the concept of "teaching the conflicts," which encourages educators to directly address opposing viewpoints in literary interpretation. 📖 The work sparked significant debate in academic circles by suggesting that some forms of literary criticism were becoming too insular and disconnected from ordinary readers' concerns. 🎓 The arguments presented in "Literature Against Itself" continue to influence discussions about the purpose of literary studies and helped shape the development of contemporary literary pedagogy in American universities.