Yes, a very thoughtful posting and many insightful observations, plawrence. Thanks!
I agree that the novel had many rough edges. And since the novel appeared before the film, it was judged on its own at the time. A co-worker at the time told me she thought it "reads like a first draft." My mom called it "trashy but interesting." I thought it was thoroughly absorbing, rough edges and all.
Ah, but think of the combination of the novel and the film! Only "Gone With the Wind" enjoys similar status--and had similar success on both fronts.