The Prose Factory

Gossipy journalists, revolutionary poets, political novelists and influential professors- a fascinating history of taste in literary culture over the last century

Spanning a century of literary history, from the pitched battles fought between Eliot-era modernists and Georgian traditionalists to the impact of creative writing degrees and the media don of today and more, this book explores the myriad influences on English literary life in the past century and the way in which they have shaped our preferences.

‘An entertaining history of literary life’ Nicholas Shakespeare, Daily Telegraph

Spanning a century of literary history, from the pitched battles fought between Eliot-era modernists and Georgian traditionalists to the impact of creative writing degrees and the media don of today and taking in ‘star reviewers’, sniping critics, caballing editors and megalomaniac professors along the way, The Prose Factory explores the myriad influences on English literary life in the past century and the way in which they have shaped our preferences.

‘An amazing achievement’ David Lodge

‘A pleasingly gossipy history of literary life in England since 1918…very enjoyable’ Observer

‘Elegantly written, defiantly intelligent, scrupulously researched and richly enjoyable’ Mail on Sunday