Who was more influential: Oscar Wilde or Franz Kafka?

Question

I know, I know, perhaps a strange comparison. But consider it on a very base level -- say, would modern literature (as a vast whole) be more affected if you erased Kafka and his writings from history or Wilde and his?

Answer 1

I think Wilde was the greatest influence. I have read both and seen plays by Wilde. But less people have read a book by Kafka all the way through than they have by Wilde, and also Kafka didn't do plays. In addition, Wilde tackled a wider number of themes, while Kafka was more limited to the pointlessness and impossibility of life in general.

Answer 2

There are too many ways to think about this question. You need to narrow it down champ!

I'd argue that more authors would have been influenced by Kafka, so therefore his effect has been greater and the loss of his work felt more on literature. But that's basing my answer on the books I've read and the authors I prefer to read. It's also based on my dislike for Wilde and all his 'delightful' witticisms.

Oscar Wilde has probably been read more though. Mention 'The Importance of Being Ernest"  and watch their wise thoughtful nods, and then "Metamorphosis" and see how confused they become. So maybe the answer is Wilde.

I can't see a way a fair comparison can be made.

Answer 3

Probably Kafka, because I'm more familiar with his work.

Answer 4

Kafka

Answer 5

NOT SURE  

Answer 6

I think both. But if you would ask mainstream america as to who they heard of before I think more people will say Oscar Wilde. I haven't heard of many people who covered Franz Kafka's work in school when compared to Oscar Wilde.