This collection of essays attempts to analyse common assumptions about art, literature and criticism at the time of publication in 1895. Taking the position of `a Philistine' , Spender argues against the `new' art and fiction and encourages the average member of the public to state their opinion and give validation that the average view is just as worthy as the `new' criticism which tended toward superiority. This title will be of interest to students of Literature, Art and Art History.