Has Anyone Ever Turned Down the Pulitzer Prize?

Among the numerous accolades and honors bestowed upon illustrious authors, the Pulitzer Prize stands as a prominent symbol of literary excellence. It comes as a surprise, therefore, to learn that renowned American author Sinclair Lewis had once refused the prestigious award. In 1926, Lewis declined the Pulitzer Prize for his novel Arrowsmith, making it an unprecedented chapter in the annals of American literature.

Sinclair Lewis: A Prominent Figure in American Literature

Sinclair Lewis (1885-1951) was an influential American novelist and social critic, a pioneer of social realism. Known for his penetrating portrayals of the middle class and its cultural mores, Lewis explored themes of conformity and the quest for personal freedom and self-fulfillment. His works such as Main Street (1920) and Babbitt (1922) are widely regarded as masterpieces of American literature and critique societal issues with unflinching honesty.

An Overview of the Pulitzer Prizes

The Pulitzer Prizes, a series of awards for letters, drama, and music, were established in 1917 by the will of American-Jewish printer and publishing magnate Joseph Pulitzer. These awards are highly esteemed and are given out annually by Columbia University. Notable categories include journalism, fiction, general nonfiction, poetry, and drama. The Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, in particular, is one of the most prestigious literary awards in the United States and is highly coveted by writers.

The Controversy Surrounding Arrowsmith

Arrowsmith, Sinclair Lewis's fourth novel, narrates the life of Dr. Martin Arrowsmith, a physician who rises to prominence in the field of bacteriology while grappling with the moral and personal dilemmas inherent in his career. The novel was a critical success, drawing acclaim for its realistic depiction of medical science and the ethical quandaries faced by professionals in a rapidly advancing field. Lewis's meticulous research into medical science lent authenticity to the narrative, making it a poignant commentary on the role of science in society.

The Decision to Turn Down the Prize

Despite the success of Arrowsmith, Sinclair Lewis made an unprecedented decision: he declined the Pulitzer Prize. The reason for his refusal was rooted in his strong aversion to the notion of awards and public recognition. Lewis believed that an author should remain above the fray, shaping public opinion rather than being shaped by it. This sentiment was encapsulated in his famous statement, 'Aren't we to create these fine literary prizes to encourage authors to write propaganda?'

Impacts and Legacy of the Action

Lewis's act of refusal sent a ripple through the literary world. It raised questions about the nature of literature as a public institution and the relationship between authors and society. Some critics saw his decision as commendable, highlighting the artist's integrity in declining a prize that they perceived as commercial and compromising. Others viewed it as a mistake, arguing that literary recognition should not be equated with the promotion of ideology.

Conclusion: A Singular Event in Literary History

In the annals of American literary history, Sinclair Lewis's rejection of the Pulitzer Prize for Arrowsmith remains a singular event. It reflects the complex interplay of personal convictions and public perceptions within the literary sphere. Lewis's decision serves as a reminder that the act of writing is not solely about personal achievement, but also about impacting readers and, perhaps more importantly, shaping their perceptions and values.

References

1. American Memory: Sinclair Lewis

2. Pulitzer Award for Fiction