As an aside, it’s bewildering and absurd that Ulysses is being banned in school libraries in the US due to sexual content.

If some kid is reading and understanding James Joyce, just give them a pizza party and a full scholarship.

I have an English degree and have read enough “serious” literature for a lifetime. Some of it was difficult and frankly quite boring.

Nowadays I’m all about whatever’s entertaining, escapist, or feeds my soul. And I don’t have to write any papers now!

Also, “quality” literature is subjective with time. Edgar Allen Poe was considered a trashy hack back in his day. I firmly believe that 200 years from now (if the planet and humanity still exists), Stephen King’s works will be respected as serious literature and American canon.