Erewhon · Chapter
Preface to the Revised Edition explained
Samuel Butler recounts the genesis and evolution of Erewhon over thirty years, from its origins as newspaper articles on machines and the Unborn to its publication in 1872, its unexpected success, and the revisions made for this edition, in
What happens
Samuel Butler recounts the genesis and evolution of Erewhon over thirty years, from its origins as newspaper articles on machines and the Unborn to its publication in 1872, its unexpected success, and the revisions made for this edition, including reflections on literary technique and the contrast with Erewhon Revisited.
Themes in this chapter
Machines and Evolution
Butler traces the origin of Erewhon to his article 'Darwin among the Machines,' exploring the evolutionary relationship between humans and machines.
Truth and Deception
Butler discusses the 'sound of a new voice' as a charm of the original work, hinting at the theme of authenticity versus deception in literary success.
Characters to notice
- Samuel Butler
Author of the preface, reflecting on the creation and revision of Erewhon.
- Erewhonians
Referenced as the society whose philosopher articulates Butler's theory in Chapter XXVII.
Key passages
“The first part of Erewhon written was an article headed 'Darwin among the Machines,' and signed Cellarius. It was written in the Upper Rangitata district of the Canterbury Province (as it then was) of New Zealand, and appeared at Christchurch in the Press Newspaper, June 13, 1863.”
Butler explains that the earliest section of Erewhon began as a newspaper article titled 'Darwin among the Machines,' published in New Zealand in 1863.
Highlights the origin of the book in a specific historical and geographical context.
“I attribute its unlooked-for success mainly to two early favourable reviews—the first in the Pall Mall Gazette of April 12, and the second in the Spectator of April 20.”
Butler credits the book's surprising popularity to positive reviews in two prominent London periodicals.
Illustrates the role of critical reception in the book's initial success.
“Erewhon was not an organic whole, Erewhon Revisited may fairly claim to be one.”
Butler contrasts the fragmented structure of Erewhon with the unified narrative of its sequel.
Reflects Butler's own assessment of the literary quality of his works.