Sinclair Lewis, a titan of American letters and Nobel laureate, launched "Work of Art" in 1934 into a nation grappling with the Great Depression. Already celebrated for his incisive critiques of American life, Lewis's new novel was met with significant anticipation. It quickly ascended bestseller lists, capturing the public imagination not just as another offering from a literary giant but as a timely exploration of ambition, success, and the very definition of "art" in an increasingly materialistic society. Its immediate popularity reflected a public eager for narratives that questioned societal values and examined the lives of ordinary Americans striving for meaning amidst economic uncertainty, cementing its place as a significant cultural phenomenon of the era.
What it is
"Work of Art" presents a compelling dual narrative revolving around the lives of two brothers, Myron and Ora Weagle, set against the backdrop of early 20th-century America. Myron, the elder, is a meticulous, dedicated hotel manager who sees his profession as a true craft, transforming mundane hospitality into an intricate "work of art." His younger brother, Ora, is the stereotypical bohemian artist, a struggling painter whose life is marked by artistic ambition, romantic entanglements, and a chronic inability to achieve financial stability. Lewis masterfully uses their contrasting paths to explore themes of what constitutes genuine artistic endeavor, the value of different forms of work, and the often-blurred lines between art, commerce, and personal fulfillment, making the reader ponder which brother truly embodies the novel's title.
How it came to be
Sinclair Lewis, known for his rigorous research and immersive character development, likely drew inspiration for "Work of Art" from his keen observations of American professions and the societal definitions of success. By 1934, Lewis was a seasoned writer with numerous bestsellers and a Nobel Prize under his belt, affording him significant creative freedom. He often delved into the lives of "average" Americans to expose the foibles and aspirations of the era. The novel's genesis stemmed from his fascination with contrasting lives and the irony embedded in conventional notions of artistry. Lewis's previous work frequently critiqued materialism and conformity, and "Work of Art" allowed him to continue this exploration, challenging readers to reconsider where true value and beauty reside, whether in a painting or a perfectly run hotel.
How many it sold
"Work of Art" enjoyed substantial commercial success upon its release, a testament to Sinclair Lewis's enduring popularity and the novel's resonance with the 1934 reading public. It notably secured the position of the #6 bestselling novel of 1934 on Publishers Weekly's prestigious annual list, indicating impressive sales figures during a challenging economic period. While exact print run numbers are often difficult to pinpoint retrospectively, its high ranking among the year's top sellers signifies that it moved tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of copies. Lewis's international reputation also ensured translations, expanding its readership beyond the English-speaking world. This strong performance solidified its status as a commercial hit and a noteworthy literary event of its time.
Why it resonated
The novel's exploration of artistic integrity versus commercial success, and the redefinition of "art" itself, struck a chord with an American audience navigating the uncertainties of the Great Depression. Readers were drawn to Lewis's satirical yet empathetic portrayal of the Weagle brothers, finding reflections of their own struggles with ambition, societal expectations, and the pursuit of meaningful work. Critics lauded Lewis's keen social commentary and his ability to craft characters that, despite their flaws, felt profoundly real. The narrative's questioning of whether true art lay in traditional forms or in the meticulous craft of everyday life resonated deeply, offering a nuanced perspective on success and satisfaction in an era that desperately sought both.
Impact today
While perhaps not as universally recognized as *Main Street* or *Babbitt*, "Work of Art" remains a significant piece within Sinclair Lewis's extensive literary canon. It continues to offer valuable insights into early 20th-century American values, particularly regarding the intersection of creativity, commerce, and personal identity. The novel’s themes — the definition of art, the dignity of labor, and the pursuit of excellence in any field — retain their relevance in contemporary discussions about work-life balance and the nature of vocation. Though it hasn't seen major film or theater adaptations, it is still studied as an important example of Lewis's mature work, showcasing his enduring skill in dissecting American culture and character, ensuring its place in the literary history of social realism.
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