Preference Between Cormac McCarthy and William Faulkner: An Analysis of Writing Styles and Philosophical Perspectives

When faced with the choice of two towering figures in American literature, Cormac McCarthy and William Faulkner, one might ponder which author would be the wiser choice to read for the entirety of one’s literary journey. This essay explores the merits of both writers, ultimately favoring McCarthy's works for their unflinching prose, diverse settings, and a more resonant outlook on human nature.

Stylistic Comparisons: Faulkner's Depth vs. McCarthy's Simplicity

William Faulkner is often hailed as a prism refracting light in delicate colours, a testament to his intricate and layered writing style. His monet-like paintings of the South, capturing its rich and complex landscape, reflect his deep understanding of human psychology and societal issues. Faulkner’s numerous works delve into the lives of real people in a real place, with a focus on exploring the problems and promise of humanity. However, his style can sometimes appear ponderous and overly convoluted, making it difficult for modern readers to engage with his narratives.

In contrast, Cormac McCarthy offers a more straightforward and accessible reading experience. His sentences may evoke stark and vivid imagery, but his overall style is more sparing and palatable for modern tastes. McCarthy's exploration of darker territories of human nature resonates more powerfully, with stories often dealing with humanity's innate savagery and violence. His works, such as The Road and No Country for Old Men, are unflinching and uncompromising, which is a quality that many readers find compelling and thought-provoking.

Philosophical Perspectives: Progress vs. Perpetual Destruction

William Faulkner’s work is marked by a sense of human progress and inevitability. His stories are set in the Southern United States, documenting the decline and fall of a bygone era. While this perspective is both poetic and poignant, it may not resonate as deeply with modern readers who are more inclined towards a more pragmatic and realistic view of human nature.

Cormac McCarthy offers a bleaker outlook on human nature, suggesting that humanity is doomed to repeat its mistakes and destroy itself. This worldview, as reflected in works such as The Road and , is one that many find more resonant and reflective of the current state of the world. McCarthy’s message is one of dark persistence, a warning that despite the end of the Old South and other historical epochs, the human capacity for evil continues to thrive.

Aesthetic and Practical Considerations: Accessibility and Versatility

The accessibility of McCarthy’s works cannot be overstated. His writing style, while still literary and profound, is more palatable for modern tastes. This makes his books more accessible to a wider readership, especially those who may be intimidated by the complex and lengthy prose of Faulkner. Additionally, McCarthy’s works explore a diverse range of settings, from the American West to post-apocalyptic wastelands, providing readers with a more varied and intriguing reading experience.

While Faulkner is undeniably a great American author and a literary pioneer, his writing style may not age as gracefully as McCarthy's. Faulkner’s long and winding sentences, while poetic, can sometimes feel tedious to modern readers. McCarthy, on the other hand, strikes a balance between poetic depth and readability, making his works more approachable and engaging.

Conclusion: Unflinching Prose and Bleak Outlook

In conclusion, while both Cormac McCarthy and William Faulkner are undeniably great American authors, Cormac McCarthy resonates more with my particular tastes. His unflinching prose, diverse settings, and a rather bleak outlook on human nature make his works more resonant and compelling. Whether exploring the desert landscapes of The Road or the post-apocalyptic wastelands of , McCarthy’s works offer a vivid and haunting glimpse into the human condition. For these reasons, if forced to choose, I would pick the works of Cormac McCarthy to read for the rest of my days.

Keywords: Cormac McCarthy, William Faulkner, American literature, writing styles, philosophical perspectives