‘Writing with gusto and conviction’: D. H. Lawrence’s journalistic writing, 1928-30

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Duan, Buxi ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0003-2845-6050 (2024). ‘Writing with gusto and conviction’: D. H. Lawrence’s journalistic writing, 1928-30. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This research probes the less-explored field of D. H. Lawrence’s contributions to mass-circulated newspapers and magazines during the period 1928-1930, illuminating his journalistic ventures. Through an interdisciplinary lens, this study seeks to unearth the literary significance of this often-neglected dimension of Lawrence’s works, thereby stimulating scholarly and public discourse for further exploration and analysis.

The objective of this study is to underscore Lawrence’s diverse literary prowess and foster recognition of the interconnected nature of his works across genres. It employs two primary methodologies: the first, archival research, addresses the ongoing debates regarding the value of archival materials versus scholarly editions in academic studies, while the second, textual criticism, focuses on understanding Lawrence’s late journalistic writings through archival sources. Findings from archival research emphasise the importance of revisiting physical archives, illuminating previously overlooked processes by which writers craft their works. The second approach employs textual criticism to discern the intertextual relationships between Lawrence’s journalistic essays and his other writings, offering a fresh perspective on appreciating the literary richness of modernist authors’ dynamic cross-genre writing process.

This study unveils a new dimension of D. H. Lawrence as a writer adept at producing popular journalism – using it as a platform for disseminating his views on social matters to a wider audience – while concurrently pursuing his literary endeavours. In doing so, it enriches the academic discourse surrounding both Lawrence and the journalistic undertakings of other modernist writers. Moreover, it introduces the general public to this lesser-known aspect of Lawrence, encouraging them to appreciate the literary value of his late journalistic works and their intertextual links with his more renowned fictional works. Furthermore, this research underscores the value of examining Lawrence’s late archives comprehensively and meticulously. By proposing supplementary approaches to the scholarly edition of Lawrence’s works to foster cross-genre dialogues, the study of Lawrence’s late engagement with the journalistic marketplace emphasises the importance of physical archives. It invites both researchers and the general public to reignite their interest in archival exploration.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

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