THE NEW HUMANIST

George F. Babbitt, of Zenith, Illinois, has won for American Sinclair Lowis the Noble prize for literature. Irishman Bernard Shaw and Indian Rudyard Kipling are the only other English writing authors to be raised by these letters of nobility. This graceful gesture to contemporary American literature is something of a compliment. The United States is not usually looked upon as a nation of letters.

The award is, however, somewhat ominous. The judges made it quite clear that their choice was based upon "Babbitt." They looked upon it as a skillfull and honest portrayal of the typical American business man. Many Americans have read the works of Mr. Lewis and many have laughed with them. A few have felt sorry for Babbitt. Several were a little conscience striken. It is a little disquieting to find that Sweden has gone to Sinclair Lewis to find the soul of America.

This is the first time that George F. Babbitt has been considered a credit to American civilization. It may be an honor to our national literature. And, perhaps, it is just-the case of a cat looking at a king.