Eugene Field, a Study in Heredity and Contradictions — Volume 2

A lively portrait unfolds in this second volume, tracing Eugene Field’s lineage, his early forays into colored inks, and the flood of letters that reveal a poet deeply entwined with his time. The chapters move from the publication of his first books through a second European journey, offering a clear sense of the ambitions and uncertainties that shaped his youthful voice.

Interspersed with fac‑simile illustrations, the work showcases Field’s own drawings—from whimsical scenes of “Little Boy Blue” to detailed sketches of friends and everyday moments. Personal recollections from a close confidant add warmth, describing shared evenings in the Daily News office, playful pacts, and the supportive brotherly bond that steadied him through both triumphs and setbacks.

For listeners who love literary history, the volume provides a textured glimpse of a poet‑illustrator whose contradictions and humor still resonate, while the rich visual references invite the imagination to picture a world where verses and sketches lived side by side.