King Sized Up

The decision by the National Book Foundation to honor Stephen King for his "distinguished contribution to American letters" has sparked the proverbial war of words in the country's literary community. For every voice of support, there is a detractor's complaint about the sullying of a once-prestigious organization (the foundation sponsors the National Book Awards). The inevitable Harold Bloom's pronouncement equating all things King to "penny dreadfuls" has become the most quotable dismissal. So WW invited a few local literary luminaries to give their own verdicts on the topic.

"I think that he's a very accomplished writer, and I don't have any objection to him receiving the honorary award. I was going to suggest that we might award Harold Bloom a particular prize this year, however: Snot Twat of the Year."

--Katherine Dunn, author of Geek Love and a National Book Award nominee

"I'm not a Stephen King reader, though I've read some of his book criticism. I can see why the award is so controversial, but he's donating the money toward getting kids reading, and the more attention to reading, the better. I don't see any advantage in being a literary snob, unless it elevates the standards of literature--and I don't think it does here."

--Virginia Euwer Wolff, winner of the 2001 National Book Award in young people's literature for True Believer

"I take a very inclusive view of literature. The gothic novel has been a rich tradition. I've not read a lot of King's work, but I came across a collection of his short stories when I was traveling in Mexico once, and I thought Stand by Me in particular was an excellent short story."

--Michael Powell, owner of Powell's Books

"Why not? I know he's endured the bias of being a 'genre' writer, but he has brought a lot of joy to his readers. Isn't that the whole point? This award is for a 'lifetime of service.' Mr. King has taken his resources and shared them in the form of scholarships with Maine's high-school students, and has also made numerous charitable contributions through his foundation. He believes in sharing his wealth and nurturing a whole new generation of authors. Appears worthy to me."

--Carrie Hoops, Executive Director, Literary Arts

"I've never read a word by Stephen King, but if he can win one, I'm sure I'll win one. Goody."

--Richard Meltzer, whose latest book is Autumn Rhythm: Musings on Time, Tide, Aging, Dying, and Such Biz

WWeek 2015