Professionalism in Decline Within Germany's Cultural Sphere, Particularly Literature

The cultural sphere, once a bastion of artistic integrity, is now facing a concerning decline in professionalism, particularly within the book market and literature. This devaluation affects the crucial ensemble of experience, knowledge, and skill that defines true expertise.

This trend suggests that in the cultural realm, standards are slipping. The article posits that this may be because the negative consequences of such a decline are perceived as less severe compared to other fields, allowing for a more lenient approach to competence.

Referencing the poet Ringelnatz, the piece emphasizes that "Art comes from skill, not from wanting, otherwise it would be called 'want-art.'" This adage underscores the fundamental importance of mastery and craft, which appear to be increasingly sidelined in favor of less substantive qualities.