Podcast Summary: The History of Literature Episode: 703 D.H. Lawrence (with David Ellis) | My Last Book with Dorian Linsky
Host: Jacke Wilson
Release Date: May 19, 2025

Introduction to D.H. Lawrence

In this episode of The History of Literature, host Jacke Wilson delves into the enigmatic life and enduring legacy of D.H. Lawrence, accompanied by David Ellis, an Emeritus Professor of English Literature at the University of Kent and author of the critical biography D.H. Lawrence, A Critical Life. The discussion navigates through Lawrence's tumultuous personal relationships, his literary contributions, and the controversies that have surrounded his work over the decades.

David Ellis on D.H. Lawrence’s Early Life and Influences

David Ellis provides a comprehensive overview of Lawrence's proletarian roots and upward social mobility, highlighting how his background influenced his writing. He notes:

"[19:36] Ellis: Yes, yes. I'm always nervous about such blanket statements and I'm sure people out there have some other. But when I think about it, he was very interested in Robert Burns, of course, but Robert Burns was Scottish and from a rural background. John Clare, the English poet, was from a rural background. I can't think of anyone who was as good as Lawrence, from what I... I use the word proletariat deliberately."

Ellis emphasizes Lawrence's bilingual upbringing, thanks to his mother’s superior education and ability to speak standard English, setting the foundation for his intricate exploration of class and identity in his works.

Lawrence’s Relationship with His Mother and Father

The podcast delves into Lawrence's complex relationship with his parents. Ellis explains:

"[22:20] Ellis: Mrs. Arnold, as I say, she was better educated than her husband and rather was regarded as a bit of a snob... She had three boys... when he was in London working, he suddenly died. She was absolutely devastated... He was intensely devoted to his mother and she urged him on... he was emotionally dependent because of his upbringing."

This deep emotional bond initially with his mother shapes much of Lawrence’s early life, but as he matures, his perspectives shift, leading to a nuanced reconciliation with his father's more earthy and authentic connection to nature.

Ford Maddox Ford’s Influence and Lawrence’s Literary Breakthrough

Ford Maddox Ford, the editor of the English Review, played a pivotal role in Lawrence’s career. Ellis recounts:

"[29:11] Ellis: He found that he didn't want to be pigeonholed as a writer of working-class stories. He wanted to expand beyond that... Ford was inclined to say he's a genius quite often... Lawrence half believed it, but half thought... he was charismatic... He wasn't a quiet kind of person."

Ford Maddox Ford recognized Lawrence’s genius early on, providing him with the platform to reach literary London and helping to establish his reputation beyond mere proletarian narratives.

Frida Lawrence: A Turning Point in Lawrence’s Life

The introduction of Frida Weekley into Lawrence’s life marks a significant transformation. Ellis details:

"[34:12] Ellis: Frieda was the daughter of a German soldier... she had a quiet life but was involved in avant-garde circles... she was extremely attractive, full of ideas, and prepared to sleep with him."

Frida’s intellectual and passionate nature challenges Lawrence, pushing him to explore freedom and self-expression in his works. Their tumultuous relationship is characterized by both fierce debates and deep emotional dependence, ultimately sustaining until Lawrence's death in 1930.

Lawrence’s Literary Endeavors and Philosophical Pursuits

Lawrence was not confined to novel-writing; his literary portfolio was diverse:

"[52:38] Ellis: ...he wrote novels, short stories, novellas, books of philosophy, travel books, translated from Italian, poems, and plays."

Ellis highlights Lawrence’s desire to use literature as a means to effect societal change, often viewing himself as a writer with a mission rather than merely a creator of entertainment. This drive sometimes led to a sense of restlessness and dissatisfaction, especially towards the end of his life.

Controversies and Legacy

Lawrence's approach to character development stirred significant controversies:

"[46:51] Ellis: He had a terrible reputation... using people he knew as models for his characters, which often offended them."

Despite initial backlash, Lawrence's works continue to influence and inspire, particularly among ecological advocates and female writers, who find renewed appreciation for his explorations of nature and human relationships.

Interview with Dorian Linsky: Apocalyptic Literature and Human Connection

In addition to David Ellis, the episode features Dorian Linsky, author of Everything Must Go: The Stories We Tell about the End of the World. Linsky explores the human desire for connection in apocalyptic scenarios, reflecting on how characters prioritize relationships over the solace of literature in the face of impending doom.

Linsky shares insights on:

• Human instinct to seek love and companionship during crises.
• The symbolism of literature in providing comfort versus the importance of direct human interaction.
• The Warnings from literature, such as in the Twilight Zone episode "Time Enough at Last," where reliance on books alone is portrayed as insufficient.

He states:

"[61:13] Linsky: ...I'm just so sort of, sort of fascinated by exploring all these different things and joining all these different things together. So I can't name one book, but I think that would be the kind of book I was looking for."

Conclusion

Jacke Wilson wraps up the episode by reflecting on Lawrence's enduring and contentious legacy, acknowledging the complexities that make Lawrence a perpetual subject of literary exploration. The episode underscores the multifaceted nature of Lawrence’s work and personal life, highlighting why he remains a pivotal figure in literary history.

Notable Quotes

• Catherine Hughes on Lawrence’s Urgency:

  "[00:19] Jack Wilson: ...she believes that there remains something in his work that is urgent and alive."

• David Ellis on Lawrence’s Diverse Writing:

  "[52:38] Ellis: ...he wrote novels, short stories, novellas, books of philosophy, travel books, translated from Italian, poems, and plays."

• Dorian Linsky on Last Books:

  "[60:11] Linsky: ...I think you would just want something that had as much life in it as possible and like as much of the human experience."

Further Resources

• David Ellis’ Book: D.H. Lawrence, A Critical Life
• Dorian Linsky’s Book: Everything Must Go: The Stories We Tell about the End of the World
• Podcast Website: historyofliterature.com
• Support the Show: Patreon or Donate

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