This hypothetical objection reminds me of a critical essay written by Norman Mailer in the long ago, attacking John Updike. Mailer had many faults, but he knew a good metaphor when he saw one – and likewise a bad one. Good includes two essays on the Giller in this collection, which might be considered excessive – but then this literary prize is always an inviting target. He quotes a literary scholar at a conference proclaiming, “Look, I don’t care if everybody stops reading literature. “Atwood and Ondaatje are the alpha and omega of literary celebrity in Canada,” Good writes, “The former pursuing a program of full-spectrum dominance across all media channels, the latter cultivating the persona of a reclusive guru.

Source: National Post April 28, 2017 19:07 UTC