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Cover of The Great God Success: A Novel

The Great God Success: A Novel

Written by David Graham Phillips

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Journalists

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About this book

"The Great God Success: A Novel" by David Graham Phillips is a literary work likely written during the late 19th century. This novel explores the life of Howard, a recent Yale graduate who aspires to break into the competitive world of journalism amidst the trials and tribulations of newspaper life in New York City. Through Howard’s journey, Phillips delves into themes of ambition, the nature of success, and the personal sacrifices that come with striving for achievement. The opening of the novel introduces Howard as he interviews for a reporter position at the "News-Record". He feels an initial sense of inadequacy as he navigates the world of journalism, contrasting his lofty ideals with the harsh realities of the profession. During the interview, Howard's struggle with self-doubt is palpable, yet he's determined to learn and make his mark. The conversation with his potential employer, Mr. King, reveals insights into the challenges reporters face and sets the stage for Howard’s experiences as he attempts to adapt to his new role and the gritty nature of news reporting. These early chapters not only establish Howard’s character and aspirations but also highlight his initial interactions with other journalists, setting the tone for his evolving journey in the newspaper world.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Great God Success: A Novel, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 9 hours
  • intermediate
  • ambitious
  • realistic
  • introspective

David Graham Phillips's "The Great God Success" chronicles the ambitious journey of Howard, a recent Yale graduate, as he attempts to forge a career in the cutthroat world of New York City journalism during the late 19th century. Initially idealistic and burdened by self-doubt, Howard navigates the gritty realities of news reporting, contrasting his lofty aspirations with the demanding, often ethically ambiguous nature of the profession. The novel delves deeply into the personal sacrifices, moral compromises, and relentless drive required to achieve prominence, exploring how the pursuit of success can transform an individual's character and values. Through Howard's evolving experiences, Phillips critiques the societal worship of achievement and the true cost of bowing to the 'great god success.'

“"Success, Howard, is a god that demands all, and gives little save its own insatiable hunger."”

Key themes

Ambition and the Pursuit of Success
This is the central theme, exploring the relentless drive to achieve prominence and the psychological forces that compel individuals like Howard to sacrifice personal values for professional advancement. Phillips examines both the motivating power and the potentially corrupting influence of ambition, questioning whether its ultimate rewards justify the sacrifices made.
Integrity vs. Expediency in Journalism
Phillips delves into the ethical landscape of journalism, particularly the tension between reporting the unvarnished truth and the pressure to sensationalize, distort, or suppress information for circulation, political gain, or personal advancement. Howard's journey highlights the moral dilemmas faced when professional expediency clashes with personal integrity.
The Cost of the American Dream
The novel critiques the popular notion of the American Dream, particularly the idea that hard work inevitably leads to prosperity and happiness. It explores the darker side of this pursuit, revealing the personal sacrifices, moral compromises, and potential for disillusionment that can accompany the achievement of material or professional success.

Worth discussing

How does Phillips define 'success' through Howard's journey, and how does this definition evolve throughout the novel?

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