“You write that the last episode sent seems to you to show a weakening or diffusion of some sort.”

Joyce’s correspondence shows how closely he engaged with criticism of his developing work. · Letter to Harriet Shaw Weaver, 1919

• Criticism
• Readers
• Writing

“One thing only I regret, namely, that an immature and hasty article should have met your eye, rather than something better and worthier of your praise.”

The young Joyce combines pride in his achievement with striking self-criticism. · Letter to William Archer concerning Ibsen, 1900

• Criticism
• Humility
• Writing

“You would prefer even hotheadedness to nerveless and ‘cultured’ paradoxes.”

Joyce argues for passionate engagement over detached intellectual posturing. · Letter to William Archer concerning Ibsen, 1900

• Courage
• Literature
• Passion