The Great Read: What Is Literary Criticism For?

John Guillory's "Cultural Capital," published amid the 1990s canon wars, became a classic. In a follow-up, "Professing Criticism," he takes on his field's deep funk.

Continue reading the main story February 3, 2023 Every weekday, we recommend one piece of exceptional writing from The Times — a narrative or essay that takes you someplace you might not expect to go. Timothy O'Connell for The New York Times What Is Literary Criticism For? John Guillory's "Cultural Capital," published amid the 1990s canon wars, became a classic. In a follow-up, "Professing Criticism," he takes on his field's deep funk. Open now Continue reading the main story Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this email because you signed up for top stories or great reads from The New York Times. To stop receiving The Great Read, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, manage your email preferences. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018