Prejudices, fourth series

"Prejudices, Fourth Series" by H. L. Mencken is a compilation of insightful essays offering a biting commentary on early 20th-century American society. The essays serve as a vehicle for Mencken’s cynical perspective as he tackles subjects like American culture, literature, politics, and social customs with an objective to deliver criticism on America’s flaws and ideals. He starts by examining the concept of "The American Tradition," questioning whether American literature genuinely celebrates its writers or if it forces a uniform cultural viewpoint. He dives into the impact of individuals such as Dr. William Crary Brownell, seeing them as symbols of a larger movement that stifles the unique contributions of authors like Emerson, Hawthorne, and Whitman; this shows his deep dislike for mediocrity and his firm belief in artists' ability to be free of constraints.