As mentioned in the “Introduction to the Novel” section, Cathedral represents Carver taking increasing control over his work and moving away from his editor, Gordon Lish, who had left such a significant mark on his early work.
In terms of Carver’s influence on other books, Carver has made a significant impact on late-twentieth century American short story writing. As a writer of “domestic realism,” Carver helped establish the idea of what it means to portray American life honestly, accurately, and beautifully. Along with John Cheever, his colleague and another writer of domestic realism, Carver was considered one of the best writers of the short form during his time.
