How does Lawrence establish the superiority of the novel over the other forms of literature?

Answer

How does Lawrence establish the superiority of the novel over the other forms of literature?

Or, why does D. H. Lawrence consider the novel superior to philosophy, science, or even poetry? Discuss.

In “Why the Novel Matters,” published posthumously in the 1936 essay collection Phoenix, D.H. Lawrence (1885-1930) passionately argues that the novel is superior to other forms of literature because it captures the wholeness of life. Unlike poetry, philosophy, or science, which focus on specific aspects of human existence, the novel embraces the complete human experience—body, mind, and spirit. Lawrence explains this idea in simple but powerful ways. For Lawrence, the novel is not just a form of entertainment—it is the ultimate expression of what it means to be “man alive.” Here we dive deep.

The Novel as the “Bright Book of Life”: Lawrence begins by defining the novel as the bright book of life. Lawrence writes:

“The novel is the one bright book of life.”

The novel is a literary form that captures the totality of human existence. While other forms of literature might focus on abstract ideals or isolated emotions, the novel explores life in its entirety. It deals with humans as living, breathing beings, not just as carriers of thoughts, souls, or emotions. The novel, according to Lawrence, can make a person feel fully alive.

Holistic Representation of Life: Lawrence criticizes philosophers, scientists, and saints for focusing only on fragments of human life. Philosophers prioritize thought, scientists examine the body as an object, and saints overemphasize the soul or spirit. In contrast, the novel integrates all these elements. It shows people as complex, multi-dimensional beings. Lawrence highlights how the novel communicates not just ideas or ideals but also the sensations, instincts, and emotions that define human life.

Full Play of Right and Wrong: One reason Lawrence finds the novel superior is its ability to portray the complexity of morality. In life, what is “right” in one situation may be “wrong”