
A thoughtful collection of essays that turns the spotlight onto the literary scene of the present day. Rather than offering definitive judgments about the classics, the author invites readers into a lively dialogue about the unsettled terrain of contemporary writing, acknowledging how even the most seasoned critics can miss the mark when evaluating their own era. The pieces balance serious observation with a light, conversational tone, suggesting that criticism can be both rigorous and personable.
The volume brings together works that have largely been unseen by English audiences, many originally published in American journals, and concludes with a playful, Lucian‑style sketch that has amusingly been misattributed to several better‑known writers. Throughout, the essays champion a consistent set of principles while allowing space for irony and personal insight, making the book a compelling companion for anyone eager to understand the ever‑shifting questions that shape today’s literature.
Language
en
Duration
~6 hours (364K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2020-02-03
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1849–1928
A poet, critic, and memoirist from the late Victorian world, he is best remembered today for turning a difficult childhood into the classic memoir Father and Son. His writing helped connect readers with both English literature and the changing literary culture of his time.
View all books