Fenimore Cooper's Literary Offenses

"Fenimore Cooper’s Literary Offenses" is an essay by critic Mark Twain that humorously criticizes the common flaws found in James Fenimore Cooper’s writing. Twain points out issues like overly detailed descriptions, predictable plots, unnecessary historical or geographical details, and characters acting unrealistically. He argues that these flaws detract from a story’s readability and emotional impact. The essay highlights the importance of clear storytelling, relatable characters, and engaging plots, serving as a reminder that good literature balances descriptive richness with narrative flow.