Joshi critiques King's writing faults

S. T. Joshi, a prominent figure in the analysis of horror fiction, provides a critical examination of Stephen King's writing in his work, The Modern Weird Tale. Joshi dedicates a chapter to King, where he presents a stark critique of King's most recognized works. He characterizes these pieces as often bloated and illogical, suggesting that they frequently rely on deus ex machina endings, which can undermine narrative coherence. This perspective highlights a broader concern regarding the quality and depth of storytelling in popular horror literature, particularly in the context of King's extensive bibliography. Joshi's analysis raises questions about the balance between commercial success and literary merit, suggesting that King's popularity may not always align with the critical standards of writing. Despite his criticisms, Joshi acknowledges a shift in King's writing style following the publication of Gerald's Game. He notes that King has made efforts to address some of the flaws identified in his earlier works. This evolution is marked by a trend towards more concise and believable narratives, indicating a maturation in King's approach to storytelling. Joshi's insights reflect a significant discourse within literary criticism, where the evolution of an author's style can be as important as their most celebrated works. The dialogue surrounding King's writing serves as a case study in the complexities of genre fiction, where commercial appeal and literary quality often intersect.