"Critic's delight: scolding the Mighty Dead"

Mason Cooley's quote "Critic's pleasure: scolding the Mighty Dead" is a commentary on the propensity of critics to enjoy slamming the works of great authors and thinkers who have actually died. Cooley is suggesting that it is simpler to slam the works of those who are no longer alive and can not defend themselves. He indicates that it is easier to criticize the works of the "Mighty Dead" than to create something of value oneself. This quote is a reminder that criticism need to be constructive and not simply a chance to take down the works of others. It is likewise a tip that the works of the fantastic authors and thinkers of the past need to be respected and valued, not simply criticized.