Meaning: The quote "'s one of the perversities of the age: I'm embarrassed by its success, but I'm happy it's selling" by Jonathan Franzen, a well-known American novelist, encapsulates the complex and often contradictory emotions that creators may experience when their work achieves commercial success. Franzen is known for his candid and introspective commentary on the contemporary literary landscape, and this quote offers a glimpse into the inner turmoil that can accompany the reception of one's own creative output.

The phrase "one of the perversities of the age" suggests that Franzen views this conundrum as a characteristic feature of the current cultural and artistic climate. In an era where the commodification and mass consumption of art often intersect with the pursuit of artistic integrity and authenticity, creators can find themselves grappling with conflicting feelings about the reception of their work. The word "perversities" implies a sense of irony or contradiction, hinting at the paradoxical nature of the situation Franzen is describing.

The first part of the quote, "I'm embarrassed by its success," reflects the sentiment of discomfort or self-consciousness that can arise when a work achieves widespread acclaim or popularity. This reaction may stem from a variety of sources, such as a fear of being perceived as pandering to commercial interests, a concern about losing connection with the original artistic vision, or a discomfort with the expectations and scrutiny that come with heightened visibility.

On the other hand, the second part of the quote, "but I'm happy it's selling," reveals a more pragmatic or reconciliatory perspective. Despite the embarrassment or ambivalence about the work's success, there is an acknowledgment of the positive implications of commercial viability. This sentiment can be rooted in the recognition of the financial security that success can bring, the validation of one's creative abilities, or the satisfaction of reaching a wider audience with one's art.

Franzen's ability to encapsulate this internal conflict in a succinct and thought-provoking manner speaks to his skill as a writer and his astute understanding of the complexities of the creative process. His willingness to openly acknowledge and grapple with these conflicting emotions also underscores his authenticity and willingness to engage in introspection, qualities that have contributed to his reputation as a perceptive and introspective author.

This quote may resonate with many artists, writers, and creators who have navigated the terrain of commercial success and critical acclaim. It reflects the tension between artistic integrity and the realities of the market, as well as the multifaceted emotional landscape that accompanies the reception of one's work in the public sphere.

In conclusion, Jonathan Franzen's quote "'s one of the perversities of the age: I'm embarrassed by its success, but I'm happy it's selling" offers a compelling glimpse into the complex and often contradictory emotions that creators may experience when their work achieves commercial success. It captures the tension between artistic integrity and commercial viability, as well as the internal conflict that can arise when one's creative output garners widespread acclaim. Franzen's candid and introspective commentary on this subject provides valuable insight into the nuanced dynamics of the contemporary artistic landscape.