Literary criticism

Literary Criticism is a very important aspect of writing that is often misunderstood, occasionally by the public, and often by writers themselves. Literary criticism can denounce an authors theories or tear apart their life's work with a single stroke of the pen or click of the key board, such as with Charles Darwin who would not be vindicated and honored until several years after his theories became mainstream. However literary criticism also allows us to analyze an authors works and delve into their thoughts and psyche to learn not only how they came to their conclusions but also why. Another key to literary criticism is to learn not only about the story being written but the message beneath it. My favorite author Jack London (1876-1916) received much criticism of his works during his career as a writer. London wrote many novels and short stories during his career as a writer, my favourite by far is The Sea Wolf. first published in 1904 it was met with great acclaim. On its surface The Sea Wolf is merely a story of the sea, loss, and hardship The Sea Wolf can be criticized and seen for what it really is, a commentary on the human condition, and how emotional and passionate responses are more important than amoral production and greed (The portable Jack London, Labor xvi). Literary Criticism is most important because of its ability to give the reader a deeper insight into the mind of the author and extract the message he or she is attempting to get across.