What do you think?
Rate this book
Damn the Novel
Damn the NovelDamn the Novel is an overt condemnation of all forms of privilege granted to a literary genre over other writing genres. Though Damn the Novel could be perceived as a vociferous cry against the novel per se, it is actually an objective view against the process of perpetuating the delusion that the novel specifically, and narrative fiction in general, should inevitably be the most dominating and influential literary trend.Damn the Novel offers an exciting and challenging reading experience, through which the reader will be able to realize that it is time for literature to embrace a fresh literary atmosphere in which all genres are granted equality to get the same chance to flourish in total freedom without any literary sponsorship.
160 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 10, 2018
4 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 27, 2019
Welcome to a whole new world! If like me you read mostly fiction and your #TBR list or pile is mostly novels then you might want to consider this book of (literal) literary criticism. But be prepared to add some fresh names to your lists. Like me, I expect that you might be hesitant to pick up a book that seems from the title to slightly berate your favourite genre, and mine. But give this book a chance; it not only introduced me to some new writers who aren’t as well known to the reader of popular fiction on this side of the world, but by chapter four had me making all-new lists of writers and reminders to look into Arabic philosophers’ attitudes toward the novel. Hence the name of my review (see what I did there?!).
I was hooked as early as page six “after I broke up with poetry” – I wish that more criticism was this much fun to read.
The chapters are not numbered but given thoughtful, sometimes witty names that only hint of what you might find ahead and by the third or fourth you might find yourself immersed into what I promise is a considered, lyrical and yes, narrative recounting of the author’s “allergy to the novel” and love of the Arabic literary arts.
Do consider giving this easily-read survey a chance; “Damn the Novel” is a whole lot more than a protracted bashing of fiction. I know almost nothing about the Arabic written arts and admit to a long-standing prejudice against reading almost anything translated. The collaboration of author and translator here is at times formal but always a pleasure, and I wonder if I am enjoying the work of a gifted writer, translator or the perfect teamwork of both.
Highly recommended!
I was hooked as early as page six “after I broke up with poetry” – I wish that more criticism was this much fun to read.
The chapters are not numbered but given thoughtful, sometimes witty names that only hint of what you might find ahead and by the third or fourth you might find yourself immersed into what I promise is a considered, lyrical and yes, narrative recounting of the author’s “allergy to the novel” and love of the Arabic literary arts.
Do consider giving this easily-read survey a chance; “Damn the Novel” is a whole lot more than a protracted bashing of fiction. I know almost nothing about the Arabic written arts and admit to a long-standing prejudice against reading almost anything translated. The collaboration of author and translator here is at times formal but always a pleasure, and I wonder if I am enjoying the work of a gifted writer, translator or the perfect teamwork of both.
Highly recommended!
July 6, 2019
In this volume of forty-five short essays of literary criticism, the author, writing from a distinctly Sudanese-Arabic sensibility, asserts his case that the novel has superseded the other, more clearly-superior genres of poetry and the essay based on the greater public exposure novels receive, which virtually guarantees their marketability and thus, profit. The unfortunate commercialization of novels in the form of popular television and cable mini-series adaptations obscures the finer literary qualities of these works; the market simply churns out a constant machine-like supply of stories for the public to consume. Given this public thirst for novels, Dahab bemoans the lack of relative and substantial submission opportunities for writers in other genres; both the short fiction and poetry markets offer equally scant opportunities for getting new talent into the public eye. He also laments the ongoing blurring of genres as he asserts that “[t]he value and the pleasure of any artistic or literary genre do come from their unique distinctiveness, not from taking all the light on the stage through pushing the other arts to the dark corners.”
This blurring of genre boundaries is topical, given that “creative nonfiction” and “flash fiction” are relatively new categories that obfuscate the definitions of traditional genres even further. As such, this essay collection might have used “Genre Wars” as an alternate title. Many of these essays could be read as standalone pieces that might provide opportunities for undergraduate English faculty to use them with students in a literary theory course, a seminar on multicultural literature, or a special topics theme-based course. A recurring theme throughout the volume asserts that poetry still represents the summit of literary achievement, largely because of the talent necessary to compose works that transcend centuries by way of the aesthetic pleasures such works impart to new generations of readers.
Copyright@2019 by the US Review of Books
This blurring of genre boundaries is topical, given that “creative nonfiction” and “flash fiction” are relatively new categories that obfuscate the definitions of traditional genres even further. As such, this essay collection might have used “Genre Wars” as an alternate title. Many of these essays could be read as standalone pieces that might provide opportunities for undergraduate English faculty to use them with students in a literary theory course, a seminar on multicultural literature, or a special topics theme-based course. A recurring theme throughout the volume asserts that poetry still represents the summit of literary achievement, largely because of the talent necessary to compose works that transcend centuries by way of the aesthetic pleasures such works impart to new generations of readers.
Copyright@2019 by the US Review of Books
November 1, 2019
[English review + Reseña en español]
Damn the Novel (When a Privileged Genre Prevails Over all Forms of Creative Writing), by Amr Muneer Dahab (Translated from Arabic by Youssef Elharrak)
AuthorHouse. 2019.
160 pages.
Genre: Essay
This book is a compilation of essays about the current state of literature and a complaint against the enthronement of the novel as a superior genre. Its driving axis is the incisive critique of the subordinate verticality and the competition to which literary genres are currently subjected, as opposed to a horizontal approach, in which genres could coexist without the need to compete with each other. In the author's words, "this book is a condemnation of those who deploy their impact on the public opinion to advocate a privilege to be granted to a genre over the rest of the existing literary genres."
The author affirms that, with all awareness, the mercantile apparatus built around literature today treats the genre of the novel with an exclusive favoritism —as if it were a recurring fashion object to which all honors should be granted—, relegating the authors of other not less deserving genres as the essay, poetry and short fiction to oblivion and economic failure. In order to expose this, the author touches important points of possible comparison between the different genres and to the approach with which the works are qualified and favored, such as the literary quality of the text, the maturity, style, complexity, creativity, creativity, artistic quality, ethics, extension, topicality and the variety of their contents. It also analyzes the production and reproduction of the work, the assessment by critics, the validity of the awards, the issue of lobbies and mafias around certain authors, as well as the problems related to fame and over-promotion.
Although I do not agree with the author's idea that the novel reader does not read anything else, as if the preference for a genre were necessarily exclusive (according to the author, the readers seem to be kidnapped from the possibility of trying other forms of literature different), nor in his reluctance to approach fiction genres as if they were the plague, I do agree on other points: that one genre should not be given primacy over others; that those responsible for the "epidemic" of novel lovers are the members of the publishing industry (more interested in profitability than in the quality, variety or diversity of genres); and that the value of each genre must come from its distinctive elements and not from the dulling of the rest of the genres, in an effort to cover everything.
---------
Damn the Novel (When a Privileged Genre Prevails Over all Forms of Creative Writing), por Amr Muneer Dahab (Traducido del árabe por Youssef Elharrak)
AuthorHouse. 2019.
160 páginas.
Género: Ensayo
Este libro es una recopilación de ensayos en torno al estado actual de la literatura y una queja contra la entronización de la novela como género superior. Su eje conductor es la crítica incisiva a la verticalidad subordinante y a la competencia a la que son sometidos los géneros literarios en la actualidad, por contraposición a un enfoque horizontal, en el que los géneros podrían coexistir sin necesidad de competir entre sí. En palabras del autor, “este libro condena a aquellos que despliegan (utilizan) su impacto en la opinión pública para abogar por que un privilegio sea otorgado a un género por sobre el resto de los géneros literarios existentes”.
El autor afirma que, con todo conocimiento de causa, el aparato mercantil en torno a la literatura en nuestros días trata al género de la novela con un favoritismo exclusivo —como si se tratase de un objeto de moda recurrente al que hay que hacerle todos los honres—, relegando al olvido y al fracaso económico a los autores de otros géneros no menos meritorios como el ensayo, la poesía y la ficción corta. Para ello, el autor toca puntos importantes de posible comparación entre los distintos géneros y en el enfoque con el que se califican y favorecen las obras, tales como la calidad literaria del texto, la madurez, el estilo, la complejidad, la creatividad, la calidad artística, la ética, la extensión, la actualidad y la variedad de sus contenidos. Asimismo hace un análisis en torno a la producción y reproducción de la obra, a la valoración por parte de los críticos, a la validez de las premiaciones, al asunto de las camarillas y mafias alrededor de ciertos autores, así como a los problemas relacionados con la fama y el exceso de promoción.
Aunque no estoy de acuerdo con la idea del autor de que el lector de novelas no lee nada más, como si la preferencia por un género fuese obligadamente excluyente (según el autor, los lectores parecen estar secuestrados de la posibilidad de probar otras formas de literatura distintas), ni en su reticencia a acercarse a los géneros de ficción como si se tratase de la peste, sí le doy la razón en otros puntos: que no debería de dársele primacía a un género sobre los demás; que los grandes responsables de la "epidemia" de amantes de la novela son los miembros de la industria editorial (más interesados en la rentabilidad que en la calidad, la variedad o la diversidad de géneros); y que el valor de cada género debe venir de sus elementos distintivos y no del opacamiento del resto de los géneros, en un afán de abarcarlo todo.
Damn the Novel (When a Privileged Genre Prevails Over all Forms of Creative Writing), by Amr Muneer Dahab (Translated from Arabic by Youssef Elharrak)
AuthorHouse. 2019.
160 pages.
Genre: Essay
This book is a compilation of essays about the current state of literature and a complaint against the enthronement of the novel as a superior genre. Its driving axis is the incisive critique of the subordinate verticality and the competition to which literary genres are currently subjected, as opposed to a horizontal approach, in which genres could coexist without the need to compete with each other. In the author's words, "this book is a condemnation of those who deploy their impact on the public opinion to advocate a privilege to be granted to a genre over the rest of the existing literary genres."
The author affirms that, with all awareness, the mercantile apparatus built around literature today treats the genre of the novel with an exclusive favoritism —as if it were a recurring fashion object to which all honors should be granted—, relegating the authors of other not less deserving genres as the essay, poetry and short fiction to oblivion and economic failure. In order to expose this, the author touches important points of possible comparison between the different genres and to the approach with which the works are qualified and favored, such as the literary quality of the text, the maturity, style, complexity, creativity, creativity, artistic quality, ethics, extension, topicality and the variety of their contents. It also analyzes the production and reproduction of the work, the assessment by critics, the validity of the awards, the issue of lobbies and mafias around certain authors, as well as the problems related to fame and over-promotion.
Although I do not agree with the author's idea that the novel reader does not read anything else, as if the preference for a genre were necessarily exclusive (according to the author, the readers seem to be kidnapped from the possibility of trying other forms of literature different), nor in his reluctance to approach fiction genres as if they were the plague, I do agree on other points: that one genre should not be given primacy over others; that those responsible for the "epidemic" of novel lovers are the members of the publishing industry (more interested in profitability than in the quality, variety or diversity of genres); and that the value of each genre must come from its distinctive elements and not from the dulling of the rest of the genres, in an effort to cover everything.
---------
Damn the Novel (When a Privileged Genre Prevails Over all Forms of Creative Writing), por Amr Muneer Dahab (Traducido del árabe por Youssef Elharrak)
AuthorHouse. 2019.
160 páginas.
Género: Ensayo
Este libro es una recopilación de ensayos en torno al estado actual de la literatura y una queja contra la entronización de la novela como género superior. Su eje conductor es la crítica incisiva a la verticalidad subordinante y a la competencia a la que son sometidos los géneros literarios en la actualidad, por contraposición a un enfoque horizontal, en el que los géneros podrían coexistir sin necesidad de competir entre sí. En palabras del autor, “este libro condena a aquellos que despliegan (utilizan) su impacto en la opinión pública para abogar por que un privilegio sea otorgado a un género por sobre el resto de los géneros literarios existentes”.
El autor afirma que, con todo conocimiento de causa, el aparato mercantil en torno a la literatura en nuestros días trata al género de la novela con un favoritismo exclusivo —como si se tratase de un objeto de moda recurrente al que hay que hacerle todos los honres—, relegando al olvido y al fracaso económico a los autores de otros géneros no menos meritorios como el ensayo, la poesía y la ficción corta. Para ello, el autor toca puntos importantes de posible comparación entre los distintos géneros y en el enfoque con el que se califican y favorecen las obras, tales como la calidad literaria del texto, la madurez, el estilo, la complejidad, la creatividad, la calidad artística, la ética, la extensión, la actualidad y la variedad de sus contenidos. Asimismo hace un análisis en torno a la producción y reproducción de la obra, a la valoración por parte de los críticos, a la validez de las premiaciones, al asunto de las camarillas y mafias alrededor de ciertos autores, así como a los problemas relacionados con la fama y el exceso de promoción.
Aunque no estoy de acuerdo con la idea del autor de que el lector de novelas no lee nada más, como si la preferencia por un género fuese obligadamente excluyente (según el autor, los lectores parecen estar secuestrados de la posibilidad de probar otras formas de literatura distintas), ni en su reticencia a acercarse a los géneros de ficción como si se tratase de la peste, sí le doy la razón en otros puntos: que no debería de dársele primacía a un género sobre los demás; que los grandes responsables de la "epidemia" de amantes de la novela son los miembros de la industria editorial (más interesados en la rentabilidad que en la calidad, la variedad o la diversidad de géneros); y que el valor de cada género debe venir de sus elementos distintivos y no del opacamiento del resto de los géneros, en un afán de abarcarlo todo.
June 6, 2020
I read author AMR Muneer Dahab for the first time and I was glad to have read his book. This is a 45 essays literary piece on literary criticism from his typical Sudanese-Arabian point. This is an interesting mix of Arabic history and social commentary which one of the kinds I never read/heard. The book mainly focuses on Arabic literature and there are examples to support much of content given by Arabic authors. Author has criticised some saints with less mercy without any regrets. No doubt Arabic literature is under west influence and author Dahab points it as unhealthy and damaging. The book caught my attention because of the controversies. No doubt the author’s views are harsh and rude but there is some amazing points which he has made about the power. He tells us to come out of fantasy lands and face the reality of the cruel world and try to work to make things better instead of living in dreams without any sufferings. This is highly recommendable read.
February 8, 2020
This book was given to me to read in exchange of an honest review. I was drawn to this book not only because of its title, but because of its synopsis. I started reading it and I found out that it was going to be much complex than I thought. This book is divided in a series of essays that address, in various perspectives, the main concept presented to us, which is that the novel is the most influential genre of literature being above all others.
In the various perspectives we see the author centered in the Arabic literature where poetry was regarded, in their history, as the most superior genre. It also addresses the novel regarding essays and short stories that are also seen as inferiors. Looking from my point of view I never really noticed this, but after reading some of these essays I started looking at my shelves of books and noticed that the majority of my collection are novels, with little poetry, short stories and no essays. Then I think about my local bookstore and their recommendations and exposed books are mostly novels.
One thing that intrigued me was when the author called the novelists liars and that to produce those lies they had to enter the poet's imagination to create their own stories that eventually steals the hearts of the readers. It was also very interesting to see the part that other aspects have in putting the novel on a pedestal such as the readers, the impact of the critics and mass media, even sex and that just makes me think how many book I've read that include sexual scenes. We are also presented to the opinions of other authors, which most of them I'm unfamiliar with, but also other books that I was curious about.
This was actually the first book containing essays that I've read, I hope I'll read more and maybe come back to this matter, but I think I'm still bounded to my novels. When I was younger I was mostly exposed to the prose, it's something I hardly let go, but in my adventure throughout literature I hope I'll try other genres as well.
In the various perspectives we see the author centered in the Arabic literature where poetry was regarded, in their history, as the most superior genre. It also addresses the novel regarding essays and short stories that are also seen as inferiors. Looking from my point of view I never really noticed this, but after reading some of these essays I started looking at my shelves of books and noticed that the majority of my collection are novels, with little poetry, short stories and no essays. Then I think about my local bookstore and their recommendations and exposed books are mostly novels.
One thing that intrigued me was when the author called the novelists liars and that to produce those lies they had to enter the poet's imagination to create their own stories that eventually steals the hearts of the readers. It was also very interesting to see the part that other aspects have in putting the novel on a pedestal such as the readers, the impact of the critics and mass media, even sex and that just makes me think how many book I've read that include sexual scenes. We are also presented to the opinions of other authors, which most of them I'm unfamiliar with, but also other books that I was curious about.
This was actually the first book containing essays that I've read, I hope I'll read more and maybe come back to this matter, but I think I'm still bounded to my novels. When I was younger I was mostly exposed to the prose, it's something I hardly let go, but in my adventure throughout literature I hope I'll try other genres as well.
February 3, 2020
Literary elitism is a concept that definitely fuels how a lot of readers feel about cedrtain genres. Dahab's book touches on that and more.
I was given the opportunity to read this through Booktasters and the author himself. Thank you so much for the opportunity!
Dahab compares a lot of the insight, criticisms, and opinions he's heard from writers, strangers, and academics alike. He compares the common perception of prose, poetry, and essay writing and how they are all typically utilized in both Arab culture and the West. Where Arab writers focus, Americans - for example - might not, and vice versa. Dahab values writing just as much as the rest, and his book is definitely an eye-opener for those who write, have written, or want to write in the near (and far) future.
As a writer myself, I appreciated the love and care - but also layouts - to the different forms of writing that touch us to this day. He doesn't outright bash or look down on other forms of writing, and encourages others to do the same. I highly recommend this book to those who might feel as if they are stuck in a rut when it comes to how they perceive their own writing.
I was given the opportunity to read this through Booktasters and the author himself. Thank you so much for the opportunity!
Dahab compares a lot of the insight, criticisms, and opinions he's heard from writers, strangers, and academics alike. He compares the common perception of prose, poetry, and essay writing and how they are all typically utilized in both Arab culture and the West. Where Arab writers focus, Americans - for example - might not, and vice versa. Dahab values writing just as much as the rest, and his book is definitely an eye-opener for those who write, have written, or want to write in the near (and far) future.
As a writer myself, I appreciated the love and care - but also layouts - to the different forms of writing that touch us to this day. He doesn't outright bash or look down on other forms of writing, and encourages others to do the same. I highly recommend this book to those who might feel as if they are stuck in a rut when it comes to how they perceive their own writing.
January 11, 2020
This was an unusual choice for me as my reading for pleasure comes almost entirely in the form of social media nonsense or novels. I do sometimes read education books for my job but was intrigued by Damn the Novel as I have been wondering what it is about novels that have made them somehow higher in the hierarchy of texts that all the other media we are engulfed in day to day.
This book isn’t an attack on novels per se but rather it grapples with the notion that novels are a superior medium and challenges it on a number of counts, one by one. The writer explores and argues, championing other forms against the prevailing form that is the novel. He does so with wonderful humour, intelligence and knowledge, and in reading Damn the Novel I have been introduced to some new writers whose works I am keen to explore further. A brilliant academic text.
This book isn’t an attack on novels per se but rather it grapples with the notion that novels are a superior medium and challenges it on a number of counts, one by one. The writer explores and argues, championing other forms against the prevailing form that is the novel. He does so with wonderful humour, intelligence and knowledge, and in reading Damn the Novel I have been introduced to some new writers whose works I am keen to explore further. A brilliant academic text.
March 16, 2020
This book is so good that it introduced me to a whole new world of writers. I am so much into philosophy. However, all the books I have read are about Western philosophers and Western philosophy. This book added a lot to me. It is also beneficial for avid readers, who do not only want to just enjoy a good book, but also give it a thorough thought.
The style of writing also got me so hooked to the book that I couldn't put it down. I wanted to get to the next chapter, the next page so quickly.
It is so delicious and it is worthy your time because it will open your eyes to a new world, where you will never read novels the same again. You will gain a lot by reading this book. It gave me an insight into the world of writing in a very super subtle way. It also helped me improve my writing. All in all, it is a really nice book.
The style of writing also got me so hooked to the book that I couldn't put it down. I wanted to get to the next chapter, the next page so quickly.
It is so delicious and it is worthy your time because it will open your eyes to a new world, where you will never read novels the same again. You will gain a lot by reading this book. It gave me an insight into the world of writing in a very super subtle way. It also helped me improve my writing. All in all, it is a really nice book.
February 15, 2020
Sometimes when you hear criticism you immediately go and think of it as a bad thing, in this case it is not, the author genuinely criticized novels and narrative fictions in ways that are smart, witty, and make you smirk whilst reading the book. The irony of this is that I did not enjoy this book as much cause I am a novel type of person, I plead guilty, so it’s like I was being condemned with my reading style, like I was being lectured about something I never knew I was ever gonna be lectured about. Nonetheless, the author gives some really great insight and he uses the right words for every sentence and each chapter gives you new names to add to your list, maybe hesitantly, but you will do so nonetheless.
December 7, 2019
I pretty much liked it. Brought to my attention things I didn't know and made me appreciate the other kind of writings more, not that I like novels less, but opened my eyes to poems in precise.
Some chapters talks about things we take foe granted in novels, and others talks about new matters to me in examples of books and writings I either haven't heard of or read yet. And of course, I added names of some of the books to my reading list.
Some chapters talks about things we take foe granted in novels, and others talks about new matters to me in examples of books and writings I either haven't heard of or read yet. And of course, I added names of some of the books to my reading list.
January 30, 2020
Number of stars 3 out of 5.
This book is ok, not my favourite and it toke me a longer time to finish.
I feel that this book is ok for some tips of some things to see when you are trying to work on a novel and what the publishers are looking for.
I do recommend this book for who are looking for some tips. But to read for fun not so much. It is still ok to read.
This book is ok, not my favourite and it toke me a longer time to finish.
I feel that this book is ok for some tips of some things to see when you are trying to work on a novel and what the publishers are looking for.
I do recommend this book for who are looking for some tips. But to read for fun not so much. It is still ok to read.
November 6, 2019
This book take you to diffrent way of thinking, give me new vision of diffrent kind of writes, and express my feeling that really how the novel control of all kind of write, I recommended this book, all the best to the writer 👍
February 17, 2020
An excellent collection of essays to remind that there is a world of solid writing out there beyond the novel. Amr Muneer Dahab is dead-on with his points and Youssef Elharrak's translation puts it all in clear and concise English. A fine read.
August 5, 2020
Damn the Novel is a book originally written in Arabic and translated to English by Amr Munear Daheb. The book attacks the supposedly monopoly of the novel genre in the literary world especially focusing on the current Arabic literary world.
Using books and drawing quotes from famous Arabic authors like Tayib Salih and others, the books seeks to explain why the so called influence of the novel today in the Arabic world is over hyped and it's growth if unchecked could lead to stagnation of the Arabic literary world. The book especially accuses young upcoming literary writers and former essayist of choosing the easy route of writing novels compared to the cumbersome genre of poetry. Consider " every writer is first drawn to poetry untill they lose fascination maybe by not being consistent or an inability to maintain rhyme and rhythm, proceed to embrace the diverse novel genre instead"...maybe because "poetry is as hard as a long journey".
The book rather praises the success of poetry in decades past before novels came to the fore and wondered the the sudden fascination with novels compared to the eassy/columns. Still using books and quotes from literary icons in Arabia and the West (Europe and America), the author observes how even the novelists the Arab world are trying to imitate mostly write novels for selfish reasons as fame, successes and the money it brings. This is to appeal to publishers and readers, feeding them with more lies and fantasies. Having gotten this and awards to booth, the experts are seen not to be contended and some outrightly declined these awards young novelist so crave for.
While not totally against the rise of the novel in the Arabic world, the book however emphasises that the so called "era of the novel" should be checked for monopoly, and poetry/essay writing take centre stage. This is because the former encourages the continuous invention of more lies laced in fantasy and the latter aims to address societal and political ills based on reality for "a journalist cannot make up a story of what happened in the society" while a novelist has no boundaries to their imaginations which could be deadly.
On the whole, the book did open my eyes to how we have covertly and overtly passed over other genres of literature in favour of the novel. The attack on the novel might seem harsh but I do feel now that it's totally warranted and the author does a good job of highlighting the inadequacies inherent in novels. As such, this piece comes highly recommended.
Using books and drawing quotes from famous Arabic authors like Tayib Salih and others, the books seeks to explain why the so called influence of the novel today in the Arabic world is over hyped and it's growth if unchecked could lead to stagnation of the Arabic literary world. The book especially accuses young upcoming literary writers and former essayist of choosing the easy route of writing novels compared to the cumbersome genre of poetry. Consider " every writer is first drawn to poetry untill they lose fascination maybe by not being consistent or an inability to maintain rhyme and rhythm, proceed to embrace the diverse novel genre instead"...maybe because "poetry is as hard as a long journey".
The book rather praises the success of poetry in decades past before novels came to the fore and wondered the the sudden fascination with novels compared to the eassy/columns. Still using books and quotes from literary icons in Arabia and the West (Europe and America), the author observes how even the novelists the Arab world are trying to imitate mostly write novels for selfish reasons as fame, successes and the money it brings. This is to appeal to publishers and readers, feeding them with more lies and fantasies. Having gotten this and awards to booth, the experts are seen not to be contended and some outrightly declined these awards young novelist so crave for.
While not totally against the rise of the novel in the Arabic world, the book however emphasises that the so called "era of the novel" should be checked for monopoly, and poetry/essay writing take centre stage. This is because the former encourages the continuous invention of more lies laced in fantasy and the latter aims to address societal and political ills based on reality for "a journalist cannot make up a story of what happened in the society" while a novelist has no boundaries to their imaginations which could be deadly.
On the whole, the book did open my eyes to how we have covertly and overtly passed over other genres of literature in favour of the novel. The attack on the novel might seem harsh but I do feel now that it's totally warranted and the author does a good job of highlighting the inadequacies inherent in novels. As such, this piece comes highly recommended.
August 19, 2020
A rare insight to the mind of an Arabian literature observer in English. I wasn't really that familiar with works and trends in the Arabian literature world, so this book gave me a glimpse of it through the various essays it contained—mostly critics for the current situation and trends. As Dahab gave nods to a number of Arabian well-known writers, it has also made me questioned things about how writers—regardless of their origin—choose to develop their careers in the literary world. Reading the book has been an interesting experience and over times makes me reflect to what I see in my country's literature trends.
The contents might be a bit biased, though, as the writer stated here and there that from the beginning of his love for literature, he had always preferred poetry—and later on essays. But I believe the arguments presented in this book are only honest cries and no ill-intention. Instead, this book reminds us to appreciate each literature form with their own uniqueness and not compare it to each other to say which form is the best.
The contents might be a bit biased, though, as the writer stated here and there that from the beginning of his love for literature, he had always preferred poetry—and later on essays. But I believe the arguments presented in this book are only honest cries and no ill-intention. Instead, this book reminds us to appreciate each literature form with their own uniqueness and not compare it to each other to say which form is the best.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2020
I enjoyed the book in general and more specifically the translation. The translator did a great job as the translation feels so natural and not deceiving the original Arabic work. I do recommend this book, readers will not regret the choice.
September 4, 2020
It is one of the most beautiful books i have ever read.
September 23, 2020
Damn the novel is a collection of essays which aim to, at first glance, criticize the literary art form which is the novel. The author starts out by giving reasons as to why he thinks the novel is being heralded as the most important literary form in lieu of a foundation for his argument. This collection, admittedly, had me up in arms at first, ready to defend every single novel and novelist I’ve come into contact with in my short life. Then again, that is probably what the author wanted. Once you read these essays, you find yourself scrolling through (or flipping though) the pages with an incredulous look on your face. At one point, I set down my device and declared Dahab a pompous gentleman who just wants to get his ideas out there. After that, though, I kept reading and realized that while this is a criticism of the novel, it is not the author’s way of completely dismissing it. All he is trying to say and the point he is making is that we have elevated the novel to such a point that to many younger readers (and, apparently, in the literary world as well), other art forms are on the brink of death.
According to Dahab, the superior art forms should be essays and poetry (although, that may be from a biased point of view since he himself is a poet). He makes an argument for the essay by giving examples of writers who dabbled in both the essay and the novel. At the start of the book, Dahab uses Tayeb Salih, a renowned Sudanese writer who penned the work of fiction: Season of Migration to the North as well as a collection of essays, articles and reviews (the fact that I cannot name a single essay written by Salih but have come across Season of Migration further serves to drive Dahab’s point home) to make his point. Salih’s novel was declared one of the greatest works of fiction of the 20th century yet he has not been known to have published any other novel after it. According to Dahab, when asked by critics why he stopped writing Salih responded by saying that he still wrote essays and articles. Interesting, isn’t it that we do not consider everything else ‘writing’ but the novel?
The further you read his work, the more convinced you are by his argument. Would we be as insulted if the criticism were about essays or short fiction or even poetry (well, the jury’s still out on this one: I, for one, would certainly be offended)? Why do we hold the novel even that which is terribly written, in higher esteem than other literary forms yet said literary forms gained precedence much longer before it? One of the essays in this collection is titled ‘Anyone Can Write a Novel’. In this essay, Dahab shares an excerpt from his book O Writers, Be Humble. To paraphrase him, Dahab gives an example of yet another renowned writer in the Arab literary world: Al-Nabigha Al-Dhubiani who transitioned from poetry to story-telling. Dahab’s argument here is that rarely will we find a writer whose niche is the novel transitioning to poetry yet a poet can simply transition to story-telling through the novel. In other words, writing novels is really not that special, so why do we treat is as such? According to Dahab, many writers end up with a novel or two to their name simply because they would like to create some buzz around their work. He cites the fact that prizes for novels are becoming more predominant than prizes for other forms of literature.
Dahab then goes on to hit at people who support the novel without any particular reason as to why. Having made it clear that he is a critic of the novel and stating his reasons why throughout the collection of essays, Dahab implies that it does not make sense that there are proponents of the novel, especially those within the literary world (novelists and critics) who have no solid reason as to why they are behind it other than the fact that they’re riding on a trend. To borrow the title of one of the essays, they love the novel for the novel’s sake. Writing this now, I realise that many of us fall within this category. That includes me. How many times have we exasperatedly chastised a friend or companion who stated that they just can’t read novels yet they can comfortably read an anthology of poetry or collection of essays? How many times have we failed to explain our fierce devotion to novels? On my end they’re too numerous to count; and therein lies Dahab’s point.
The writer further argues that the novel’s popularity stems from its curators’ ability to tell lies (among other things. One essay looks at the correlation between eroticism in novels and their popularity). Liars, he calls them and accomplices, he calls the readers. Dahab implies that novels are more popular than other literary art forms because for a moment, while you read a novel, you have the luxury of getting completely engrossed in it. You find yourself transported into a world other than your own. An alternate reality of sorts which allows you to forget your own. Majority of the other literary art forms are not able to do that for so long a period as a novel can.
As you progress with the book, you come to the realization that Dahab’s argument is not against the novel (even though it takes reading all the essays to realize that); his argument is for other literary art forms. Embrace the poem as you do the novel…elevate the essay as you have done the novel…realize that without all these others, the novel would not be nearly as relevant or as popular as it is now.
That being said, if you’re looking for a fresh set of eyes through which to view literature, this collection of essays does that. If you’re looking for a controversial conversation starter, Damn the Novel is one title you should read.
According to Dahab, the superior art forms should be essays and poetry (although, that may be from a biased point of view since he himself is a poet). He makes an argument for the essay by giving examples of writers who dabbled in both the essay and the novel. At the start of the book, Dahab uses Tayeb Salih, a renowned Sudanese writer who penned the work of fiction: Season of Migration to the North as well as a collection of essays, articles and reviews (the fact that I cannot name a single essay written by Salih but have come across Season of Migration further serves to drive Dahab’s point home) to make his point. Salih’s novel was declared one of the greatest works of fiction of the 20th century yet he has not been known to have published any other novel after it. According to Dahab, when asked by critics why he stopped writing Salih responded by saying that he still wrote essays and articles. Interesting, isn’t it that we do not consider everything else ‘writing’ but the novel?
The further you read his work, the more convinced you are by his argument. Would we be as insulted if the criticism were about essays or short fiction or even poetry (well, the jury’s still out on this one: I, for one, would certainly be offended)? Why do we hold the novel even that which is terribly written, in higher esteem than other literary forms yet said literary forms gained precedence much longer before it? One of the essays in this collection is titled ‘Anyone Can Write a Novel’. In this essay, Dahab shares an excerpt from his book O Writers, Be Humble. To paraphrase him, Dahab gives an example of yet another renowned writer in the Arab literary world: Al-Nabigha Al-Dhubiani who transitioned from poetry to story-telling. Dahab’s argument here is that rarely will we find a writer whose niche is the novel transitioning to poetry yet a poet can simply transition to story-telling through the novel. In other words, writing novels is really not that special, so why do we treat is as such? According to Dahab, many writers end up with a novel or two to their name simply because they would like to create some buzz around their work. He cites the fact that prizes for novels are becoming more predominant than prizes for other forms of literature.
Dahab then goes on to hit at people who support the novel without any particular reason as to why. Having made it clear that he is a critic of the novel and stating his reasons why throughout the collection of essays, Dahab implies that it does not make sense that there are proponents of the novel, especially those within the literary world (novelists and critics) who have no solid reason as to why they are behind it other than the fact that they’re riding on a trend. To borrow the title of one of the essays, they love the novel for the novel’s sake. Writing this now, I realise that many of us fall within this category. That includes me. How many times have we exasperatedly chastised a friend or companion who stated that they just can’t read novels yet they can comfortably read an anthology of poetry or collection of essays? How many times have we failed to explain our fierce devotion to novels? On my end they’re too numerous to count; and therein lies Dahab’s point.
The writer further argues that the novel’s popularity stems from its curators’ ability to tell lies (among other things. One essay looks at the correlation between eroticism in novels and their popularity). Liars, he calls them and accomplices, he calls the readers. Dahab implies that novels are more popular than other literary art forms because for a moment, while you read a novel, you have the luxury of getting completely engrossed in it. You find yourself transported into a world other than your own. An alternate reality of sorts which allows you to forget your own. Majority of the other literary art forms are not able to do that for so long a period as a novel can.
As you progress with the book, you come to the realization that Dahab’s argument is not against the novel (even though it takes reading all the essays to realize that); his argument is for other literary art forms. Embrace the poem as you do the novel…elevate the essay as you have done the novel…realize that without all these others, the novel would not be nearly as relevant or as popular as it is now.
That being said, if you’re looking for a fresh set of eyes through which to view literature, this collection of essays does that. If you’re looking for a controversial conversation starter, Damn the Novel is one title you should read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2020
At first i thought this book is a humorous satire on novel but it is (literal) literary criticism on giving more preferance to novels. I am a writer of poetry genre, so somewhere i also think that literature should not be restricted to only one kind. This book didn't need much time for reading as it is well written. I liked the thought of the writer.
June 14, 2020
I really loved the writer's concept behind the book. He depicted it with much ease and in understanding manner. The context of different authors and poets with there perspectives about literary arts and writings was shown with much generosity.
😊😊😊
😊😊😊
March 31, 2021
A beautiful book I recommend others to read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2025
Damn the Novel is not a typical book about literature. Amr Muneer Dahab challenges the idea
that novels should dominate the literary world. He argues that other forms of writing—essays,
poetry, and philosophy—deserve just as much attention but are often overshadowed. His tone is
bold, sometimes even provocative, as he questions why the novel is considered the ultimate
form of storytelling.
What I found most interesting was how he connects literature with culture and history. He
doesn’t just criticize novels; he also talks about how they influence the way we think. Some of
his points made me rethink the way I view fiction. Are novels really the best way to express
deep ideas? Or have we just accepted them as superior without questioning?
That said, this book isn’t for someone looking for an easy, entertaining read. It’s more like a
critical essay that challenges your perspective. At times, it felt repetitive, but the core message
is strong. If you enjoy thought-provoking discussions on literature and want to question the
status quo, this book is worth a read. But if you’re a die-hard novel lover, be prepared—it might
challenge everything you believe!
that novels should dominate the literary world. He argues that other forms of writing—essays,
poetry, and philosophy—deserve just as much attention but are often overshadowed. His tone is
bold, sometimes even provocative, as he questions why the novel is considered the ultimate
form of storytelling.
What I found most interesting was how he connects literature with culture and history. He
doesn’t just criticize novels; he also talks about how they influence the way we think. Some of
his points made me rethink the way I view fiction. Are novels really the best way to express
deep ideas? Or have we just accepted them as superior without questioning?
That said, this book isn’t for someone looking for an easy, entertaining read. It’s more like a
critical essay that challenges your perspective. At times, it felt repetitive, but the core message
is strong. If you enjoy thought-provoking discussions on literature and want to question the
status quo, this book is worth a read. But if you’re a die-hard novel lover, be prepared—it might
challenge everything you believe!
June 23, 2025
Damn the Novel challenges the dominance of narrative fiction, advocating for literary equality among all genres and promoting a fresh atmosphere where every form can flourish freely.
This was my 2nd book by the author and man, short and sweet! It made me think in new directions about novels and essays putting a microscope on topics like fiction, poems, etc. The essays are filled with wit and wisdom, just perfect🤌🏻
“Literature has a unique ability to bestow an original flavor on all its genres, one that can't be tasted through beholding other genres, regardless of how dominant or widespread they are.”
Overall, an amazing read! Recommended for lovers of nonfiction (specifically the books that makes you think).
Thanks to Booktasters and the author for the e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was my 2nd book by the author and man, short and sweet! It made me think in new directions about novels and essays putting a microscope on topics like fiction, poems, etc. The essays are filled with wit and wisdom, just perfect🤌🏻
“Literature has a unique ability to bestow an original flavor on all its genres, one that can't be tasted through beholding other genres, regardless of how dominant or widespread they are.”
Overall, an amazing read! Recommended for lovers of nonfiction (specifically the books that makes you think).
Thanks to Booktasters and the author for the e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2020
This is a well-written book, with clearly understandable concepts and interpretations.
While the tone of the essays were probably not supposed to come across as aggressive - there were times I felt like I was being told off for doing something for pleasure and enrichment (reading novels), because it was the wrong way to seek pleasure and enrichment. Having said that, I do agree that poetry has largely lost its place in the hearts and minds of readers.
In defence of the "lies" of novels, I believe many readers choose novels because of their authenticity in portraying emotions.
The interesting tidbits about various forms of literature, the witty comments, and the new names I've added to my ever-growing to-be-read list, made this a worthwhile read.
While the tone of the essays were probably not supposed to come across as aggressive - there were times I felt like I was being told off for doing something for pleasure and enrichment (reading novels), because it was the wrong way to seek pleasure and enrichment. Having said that, I do agree that poetry has largely lost its place in the hearts and minds of readers.
In defence of the "lies" of novels, I believe many readers choose novels because of their authenticity in portraying emotions.
The interesting tidbits about various forms of literature, the witty comments, and the new names I've added to my ever-growing to-be-read list, made this a worthwhile read.
October 6, 2020
What do you like more and read more? Poems? Novels? Short Stories? Essays? and Why?
As an avid novels and short story reader and "not quite a big fan" of poems, I took this book like a dare. I must admit, it's a bumpy ride with agreements and disagreements. Then there are moments like, "Well, I never saw it like this, who knew!" Overall, I enjoyed the ride, thanks to the authors a bit complex yet strong point of views and explanations. However, this book is not "quite" for everyone. If you have a mind open for criticisms, if you are ready to have a look at the literature world from both a reader and a writer's view (in this case a writer and critic from the Arab world), go on and give it a try! Happy reading!
As an avid novels and short story reader and "not quite a big fan" of poems, I took this book like a dare. I must admit, it's a bumpy ride with agreements and disagreements. Then there are moments like, "Well, I never saw it like this, who knew!" Overall, I enjoyed the ride, thanks to the authors a bit complex yet strong point of views and explanations. However, this book is not "quite" for everyone. If you have a mind open for criticisms, if you are ready to have a look at the literature world from both a reader and a writer's view (in this case a writer and critic from the Arab world), go on and give it a try! Happy reading!
September 29, 2020
This is a 45 essays literary piece in which the author is criticizing very harshly and straight forward various issues in literature.
This book is a little complex but still interesting to read; While reading it I felt like it was offering some tips to people who are trying to work on a novel, or writers in general, and that it kind of gives them an idea about what publishers look for.
Although I do not agree 100% with the authors opinions I still believe that this book gave me an idea about arabic literature and did also introduce me to different writers I would like to read more of in the future.
Also, the translator did a great job! I definitely do recommend this book.
July 10, 2020
As the translator of this book, I had the chance to learn much about a rich language and culture: Arabic
This book is not only a literary criticism, it is also a journey along the repertoire of Arabic art and literature.
I would highly recommend this book to any reader or student who is interested in world literature especially Arabic literary world. The reader can also build a list of classic and contemporary Arabic literature and culture.
Enjoy reading a book full of surprises.
This book is not only a literary criticism, it is also a journey along the repertoire of Arabic art and literature.
I would highly recommend this book to any reader or student who is interested in world literature especially Arabic literary world. The reader can also build a list of classic and contemporary Arabic literature and culture.
Enjoy reading a book full of surprises.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews