World Literatures

For many writers, winning a Nobel Prize in Literature would seem like the pinnacle of a career. It is the most prestigious prize for writing in the world and, despite the inevitable controversey that accompanies it, most recipients are pretty pleased.

Not Doris Lessing. The most recent recipient says that, while the prize may have brought her greater fame, it has stunted her literary progression. At 88 years old, after publishing dozens of novels, plays, and short stories, she'd still like to be working on that next novel. But with the constant demands of the media to be interviewed, recorded, and photographed, Lessing no longer has the energy or solitary time to devote to her work.

The prize money, now over 1 million US dollars, is awarded to aid the writer in continuing their work. But if it is hindering Lessing, is the Nobel really achieving its goal? The recognition of our too-often unrecognized artists, writers, and thinkers is a worthy purpose, but at what cost?