James Wood (critic)

James Wood (born 1965) is a prominent British-American literary critic and novelist. He is best known for his insightful and often rigorous essays on fiction, which appear regularly in publications such as The New Yorker and The New Republic. His criticism is characterized by its close reading approach, paying meticulous attention to style, form, and the technical aspects of prose. He is known for his sharp wit and willingness to engage in sometimes controversial assessments of contemporary and canonical authors.

Wood's work often grapples with the nature of realism, the craft of storytelling, and the enduring power of the novel. He frequently analyzes the work of major novelists, both classic and modern, identifying their strengths and weaknesses with a precision and clarity that has earned him a considerable readership and significant influence within literary circles. His critical style is highly intellectual, demanding a certain level of literary engagement from his readers.

Beyond his essays, Wood is also the author of several books, including How Fiction Works, a widely-read and influential work of literary theory and criticism. This book examines the fundamental elements of fiction writing, exploring themes such as plot, characterization, and style in a systematic and accessible manner, making complex literary concepts understandable to a broader audience. He has also written The Broken Estate: Essays on Literature and Belief, a collection exploring the intersection of literature and faith, and The Irresponsible Self: On Laughter and the Novel, delving into the relationship between humor and the novel form. He also wrote the novel The Book Against God.

While his work is frequently praised for its intelligence and acuity, some critics find his style overly academic or elitist. However, his significant contributions to literary criticism and his enduring influence on how fiction is discussed and understood remain undeniable. His work continues to spark debate and inspire further critical engagement with literature.