Genius

Author: Theodore Dreiser (Theodore Dreiser)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1994-05-01
Features: Eugene "W" in "The Genius" initially starts as an upright, honest, and talented young painter. However, under the allure of material temptations in a capitalist society, he becomes mentally confused, greedy, and debauched, ultimately leading him to a creative barrenness. Dreiser mercilessly exposes the various phenomena surrounding the protagonist, allowing us to clearly see the social conditions of Eugene "W" and his ilk. At the same time, he also tells us that in a country that talks about freedom in vain, a talented young person must engage in arduous struggles to achieve something, because the American way of life and genius are incompatible. One cannot both serve money and dedicate to art.