Meaning:
The quote "Every compulsion is put upon writers to become safe, polite, obedient, and sterile" by Sinclair Lewis, a celebrated American novelist, encapsulates the societal pressures and constraints that writers often face in their creative pursuits. Sinclair Lewis, known for his satirical and critical portrayal of American society, was a keen observer of the cultural and literary landscape of his time. In this quote, he laments the stifling forces that compel writers to conform to certain standards, inhibiting their ability to express themselves freely and authentically.
One interpretation of this quote is that it speaks to the tendency of society to impose limitations on writers, pressuring them to produce work that is inoffensive, conventional, and devoid of controversial or challenging content. The notion of becoming "safe, polite, obedient, and sterile" suggests a homogenization of creative expression, where writers are expected to adhere to established norms and avoid pushing boundaries or confronting uncomfortable truths. This pressure to conform can stifle innovation and originality, leading to a literary landscape that lacks diversity and depth.
Furthermore, the reference to compulsion indicates that these pressures are not merely suggestions or preferences, but rather coercive forces that can significantly impact writers' creative choices. The word "compulsion" implies a sense of obligation or constraint, highlighting the pervasive nature of these societal expectations and their potential to influence the artistic integrity of writers.
In the context of literary history, this quote resonates with periods when writers have faced censorship, political persecution, or cultural backlash for challenging prevailing norms and conventions. Throughout history, many authors have grappled with the tension between artistic freedom and societal expectations, often navigating a delicate balance between creative autonomy and the desire for acceptance and success.
The idea of writers being urged to be "safe, polite, obedient, and sterile" also speaks to the broader issue of artistic autonomy and the tension between commercial viability and creative integrity. In a commercialized and competitive literary marketplace, writers may feel compelled to tailor their work to meet market demands, sacrificing their original vision in the pursuit of commercial success. This pressure can lead to a dilution of artistic expression and a proliferation of formulaic or derivative writing that conforms to established tropes and genres.
Additionally, the quote can be interpreted as a critique of the cultural and moral conservatism that pervades certain literary circles, where writers are expected to adhere to prevailing social mores and avoid controversial or provocative subject matter. This pressure to conform to societal expectations can hinder writers from exploring complex and challenging themes, limiting the potential impact of their work and diminishing the richness of the literary landscape.
In conclusion, Sinclair Lewis's quote serves as a poignant reflection on the challenges and constraints that writers face in navigating the expectations of society, the literary establishment, and the commercial market. It underscores the enduring struggle for artistic autonomy and the need for writers to resist the pressures of homogenization and conformity, in order to preserve the vitality and diversity of literature. By highlighting the pervasive nature of these compulsion, Lewis reminds us of the ongoing importance of championing creative freedom and defending the right of writers to explore the full spectrum of human experience in their work.