On Literary Prizes: John Berger's Booker Acceptance

G, a story of sexual meditation and migrant workers in Europe, won the Booker Prize in 1972. In his Booker Prize speech, Berger imparted some positive endorsement for the state of the novel:

"The reason why the novel is so important is that the novel asks questions which no other literary form can ask: questions about the individual working on his own destiny; questions about the uses to which one can put a life..."

Clearly John Berger is a man who likes to ask questions in his art. He also poses a serious question for comtemporary literature. Should there be prizes? I happen to think that the interest and excitement generated by literary prizes are ultimately good for literature. I think prizes create healthy criticism and debate.

So I ask you, gentle readers: What are your thoughts on Literary Prizes? Please let me know, and post below. All thoughts are welcome:)

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