Potboiler - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

artistic work

A potboiler is a work of art, particularly literature or music, created merely to generate income rather than for artistic value or quality. It often lacks depth or sophistication and is typically written quickly with a focus on marketability.

Synonyms

cash in, commercial work, quick work.

Examples of usage

The author's latest novel is just a potboiler.
Critics dismissed the film as a potboiler.
She is known for her potboilers that appeal to mainstream audiences.

Interesting Facts

Literature

Some famous authors have written potboilers, including Charles Dickens, who produced serialized stories in magazines to earn a steady income.
The genre often focuses on sensationalism or melodrama, aiming to attract a wide readership rather than aiming for literary acclaim.

Pop Culture

Many popular television shows can be considered potboilers because they are designed to grab viewers’ attention rather than delve into complex themes.
Blockbuster movies often fall into the potboiler category, where entertainment takes precedence over artistic depth.

Psychology

Readers often seek potboilers for escapism, providing a quick emotional break from their daily lives with simple plots and relatable characters.
Potboilers can stimulate the brain’s reward system, leading to feelings of pleasure and satisfaction without requiring deep thinking.

Criticism

While generally viewed as lowbrow, potboilers have their defenders who argue that they fulfill an important entertainment function in society.
Critics often dismiss potboilers as lacking substance, but they can also reflect cultural trends and societal issues of their time.

Origin of 'potboiler'

Main points about word origin

The term originated in the late 19th century, combining 'pot' (for cooking) and 'boiler', suggesting something quick and easy to prepare.
In the past, writers often wrote potboilers to make ends meet, likening their work to the sort of meal that could keep you fed while not requiring gourmet effort.

The term 'potboiler' originates from the early 19th century, derived from the literal meaning of a 'pot' used to boil food and the figurative expression of writing works merely to keep the pot boiling, i.e., to earn a living. Writers and artists who produced potboilers were often seen as those who sacrificed the quality of their craft for financial gain. This notion reflects the harsh realities faced by many in the creative industries, where the need for consistent income can lead to the production of less meaningful works. Over time, the term has gained a somewhat pejorative connotation, associated with works that prioritize profit over artistic integrity. In the literary world, potboilers often contribute to genre fiction and popular entertainment, challenging the boundaries of what is considered 'art' versus commercial work.

Potboiler Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations