“The difference between literature and journalism is that journalism is unreadable and literature is not read.”
- October 16, 1854 – November 30, 1900
- Irish
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels, plays, and poems such as “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” “The Importance of Being Earnest,” and “Salome,” he had a great influence on British literature in the late 19th century through his witty social criticism and humor.
Quote
“The difference between literature and journalism is that journalism is unreadable and literature is not read.”
Explanation
In this quote, Oscar Wilde humorously critiques both literature and journalism, drawing a distinction between the two forms of writing. He suggests that journalism, despite being widely produced and disseminated, often lacks depth or quality, rendering it “unreadable” to those who might truly appreciate well-crafted prose or thought-provoking content. Journalism, in Wilde’s view, is often more about immediacy, entertainment, or sensationalism, which can make it less meaningful or lasting. On the other hand, literature, while typically more refined and thoughtful, is often neglected or ignored by the general public, who may prefer more accessible or immediate forms of entertainment like journalism.
Wilde’s irony highlights the paradox of cultural consumption: while journalism is readily consumed, it often lacks the intellectual substance of literature, and literature, despite its richness and depth, is often overlooked by the masses. This speaks to Wilde’s critique of society’s attention span, where the focus on instant gratification or news cycles leaves little room for more reflective or substantial reading.
In modern contexts, this quote reflects the ongoing tension between quality content and the mass consumption of quick, sensational media. It speaks to how journalism often caters to current events and popular appeal, while literature struggles to find its place in a world that increasingly favors short-form content and immediacy over more thoughtful and lasting works. Wilde’s words challenge us to reflect on our reading habits and the value of both literature and journalism, encouraging a balance between depth and engagement in the content we consume.
