The little review

Definition

The little review refers to a literary magazine founded in 1914 that played a crucial role in publishing modernist works and promoting avant-garde literature. It was instrumental in giving a platform to innovative writers, thereby shaping the landscape of 20th-century literature and reflecting the artistic movements of its time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The little review was founded by Margaret Anderson and became known for its bold editorial choices and commitment to avant-garde literature.
2. The magazine published significant works by major modernist writers such as Ezra Pound, T.S. Eliot, and Gertrude Stein, helping to launch their careers.
3. The little review faced numerous challenges, including censorship and legal battles, particularly for its publication of James Joyce's 'Ulysses', which was considered obscene at the time.
4. It played a vital role in fostering a community of modernist writers and artists, encouraging collaboration and the exchange of radical ideas.
5. The little review contributed to the broader cultural movements of the interwar period, reflecting the shifting social dynamics and emerging modernist aesthetics in literature.

Review Questions

• How did the little review influence the careers of modernist writers during its publication?
  • The little review significantly influenced the careers of modernist writers by providing a platform for their innovative works at a time when traditional literary forms were being challenged. By publishing groundbreaking pieces from authors like Ezra Pound and T.S. Eliot, the magazine helped these writers gain recognition and establish their voices within the literary community. The support from such a prominent publication was crucial for many modernists seeking to redefine literature in the early 20th century.
• Discuss the impact of censorship on the little review's publishing decisions and its broader significance in modernist literature.
  • Censorship had a profound impact on the little review's publishing decisions, especially regarding controversial works such as James Joyce's 'Ulysses'. The legal battles over obscenity not only challenged the magazine's editorial choices but also sparked debates about artistic freedom and expression. This struggle against censorship highlighted the tensions between avant-garde literature and societal norms, making the little review a symbol of resistance within modernist literary movements.
• Evaluate how the little review reflected the cultural shifts of the interwar period and contributed to the evolution of literary movements.
  • The little review reflected cultural shifts of the interwar period by showcasing new ideas, styles, and perspectives that resonated with contemporary society's changes. As traditional values were questioned following World War I, the magazine embraced avant-garde experimentation and promoted diverse voices that challenged conventional norms. Its commitment to modernism not only contributed to the evolution of literary movements but also fostered a dynamic environment where innovation thrived amidst social upheaval, influencing generations of writers long after its decline.

Related terms

Modernism: A cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional forms and a focus on new techniques, perspectives, and expressions in art and literature.

Avant-Garde: A term used to describe artists, writers, and thinkers who push the boundaries of what is accepted as the norm or status quo, often through experimental and innovative approaches.

Stream of Consciousness: A narrative technique that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts and feelings in a character's mind, often presenting them in a chaotic and nonlinear manner.