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According to Woolf why do great literary works often go unwritten?

Virginia Woolf, in her essay "Mr. Bennett and Mrs. Brown," argues that great literary works often go unwritten because of the overemphasis on traditional literary forms and the limitations imposed by social expectations.

Here's a breakdown of her key points:

* The tyranny of form: Woolf criticizes the rigid structure of traditional novels, claiming they stifle the authentic voice of the writer. She argues that the need to conform to a specific plot structure, character archetypes, and narrative conventions prevents writers from capturing the richness and complexity of human experience.

* The limitations of social expectations: Woolf also believes that social expectations and societal pressures constrain writers, especially women. She observes that women were often encouraged to write about "feminine" topics and discouraged from exploring broader themes. These limitations prevent writers from fully expressing their unique perspectives and experiences.

* The need for a new kind of writing: Woolf advocates for a more experimental and intuitive approach to writing, one that prioritizes authenticity and a deep understanding of human psychology. She believes this shift in perspective will allow writers to capture the "moments of being" – the fleeting but profound experiences that shape our lives.

Woolf's argument can be summarized as follows:

* Great literature is often stifled by traditional forms and societal expectations.

* Writers need to break free from these constraints to express the fullness of human experience.

* Authenticity and a deep understanding of the human mind are essential for creating truly great literature.

She challenges writers to "look at life itself" and to develop a more nuanced and truthful way of portraying it on the page. This approach, she believes, will lead to the creation of truly innovative and lasting works of art.

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