Iris Murdoch did influence my early novels very much, and influence is never entirely good

Iris Murdoch did influence my early novels very much, and influence is never entirely good

A.N. Wilson, a renowned British author and literary critic, has often spoken about the influence that Iris Murdoch had on his early novels. Murdoch, a prolific and highly respected writer known for her complex characters and philosophical themes, undoubtedly left a lasting impact on Wilson's work. However, Wilson has also acknowledged that this influence was not entirely positive, suggesting that the shadow of Murdoch's literary prowess may have hindered his own creative development in some ways.

Wilson's early novels, such as "The Sweets of Pimlico" and "The Healing Art," bear the unmistakable mark of Murdoch's influence. Like Murdoch, Wilson delved into the intricacies of human relationships and moral dilemmas, exploring the complexities of love, desire, and betrayal. He adopted Murdoch's penchant for creating multi-dimensional characters with conflicting motivations and inner turmoil, as well as her use of intricate plots that often revolved around philosophical questions and ethical quandaries.

While Wilson undoubtedly learned a great deal from Murdoch's writing style and thematic concerns, he has also expressed a sense of unease about the extent to which her influence shaped his early work. In an interview, Wilson once remarked, "Influence is never entirely good." This statement suggests that while Murdoch's influence may have helped Wilson hone his craft and develop his own voice as a writer, it may have also constrained his creativity and prevented him from fully exploring his own unique perspective and storytelling abilities.

Indeed, Wilson's later novels, such as "Victoria: A Life" and "The Potter's Hand," demonstrate a departure from the overt influence of Murdoch. These works showcase Wilson's evolution as a writer, as he moves away from the shadow of his literary mentor and begins to carve out his own distinct literary identity. While Murdoch undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping Wilson's early novels, it is clear that he has since moved beyond her influence to create works that are uniquely his own.