In this paper qualitative research in literature is considered. It is suggested that this is problematic because work in the field of literary studies is intrinsically qualitative. This does not mean however, that literary studies has avoided the attention of those like highly quantitative bureaucracies who are more interested in quantitative concerns. Historical manifestations of the tensions regarding qualitative and quantitative evaluation in literature are highlighted and a conclusion drawn that these do not serve the best interests of the field. The way forward instead, must be to incorporate quality and quantity.