Pieces of Hate; And Other Enthusiasms

"Pieces of Hate; And Other Enthusiasms" by Heywood Broun is a compilation of essays and critiques from the early 1900s, mixing wit with sharp commentary on literature, theater, and society, displaying Broun's unique views on diverse subjects. The book features a thoughtful and sarcastic voice as Broun interacts with the cultural icons and trends of his day. Its start offers a beforeword, staging Broun's look into different themes and ideas. In it, the author shows a self-aware take on his own writing and the wider world of books and criticism. He thinks about honesty in writing, the worth of ambition versus skill, and the messy mix of writing styles in his book. As the beforeword ends, the initial chapter talks about how women are seen in stories, especially in E.M. Hull's "The Sheik," using female thinking and odd romance/violence parts to frame Broun's stand-out style, mixing inside thoughts with cultural talk.