Three Editors explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Corruption of Literature and Media

  The chapter exposes the corrupt practices of literary criticism, where editors trade favorable reviews for personal gain, and authors like Lady Carbury manipulate the system.

• Deception and Hypocrisy

  Lady Carbury's letters and interactions with editors reveal a web of deception, as she feigns respect while seeking to exploit their influence.

Characters to notice

• Lady Carbury

  Writes to three editors to secure favorable reviews for her book 'Criminal Queens', demonstrating her strategic and unscrupulous approach to literary success.

• Mr. Broune

  Editor of the 'Breakfast Table'; agrees to publish a favorable review after a personal interview with Lady Carbury, which includes an unwanted kiss.

• Mr. Booker

  Editor of the 'Literary Chronicle'; a hardworking but compromised literary man who trades praise for mutual benefit despite his conscience.

• Mr. Ferdinand Alf

  Editor and part-owner of the 'Evening Pulpit'; known for his policy of constant criticism and his mysterious background.

Key passages

• “He would not probably say that the book was accurate, but he would be able to declare that it was delightful reading, that the feminine characteristics of the queens had been touched with a masterly hand, and that the work was one which would certainly make its way into all drawing-rooms.”

  Mr. Booker plans to praise the book's readability and feminine touch rather than its accuracy, ensuring it appeals to a broad audience.

  Illustrates the trade of insincere praise for mutual benefit.

• “A newspaper that wishes to make its fortune should never waste its columns and weary its readers by praising anything. Eulogy is invariably dull—a fact that Mr. Alf had discovered and had utilized.”

  Mr. Alf's newspaper thrives on constant criticism because praise is boring and unprofitable.

  Highlights the cynical commercial strategy of the 'Evening Pulpit'.