Author
Van Wyck Brooks
1886-1963
Van Wyck Brooks (1886-1963) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Van Wyck Brooks
The Ordeal of Mark Twain
"The Ordeal of Mark Twain" by Van Wyck Brooks is a literary biography written in the early 20th century. This work delves deeply into the complexities of Samuel Clemens, known as Mark Twain, particularly focusing on his later life and the philosophical despair he expressed even amidst his fame and success. Brooks explores Twain's character, his views on humanity, and the profound influences of both personal loss and societal change on his literary voice. At the start of the book, the author introduces Twain's pessimism, contrasting it with the public's perception of his career as a humorist and beloved figure. This opening portion discusses Twain's reflections on his life, the contradictions between his public persona and private despair, and the overarching theme of existential angst that marked his later writings. Brooks presents Twain as combatting an internal turmoil related to his artistic identity and his observations on the human condition, emphasized by various quotes and references to his relationships, particularly those with family members who faced their own tragedies.
The World of H.G. Wells
"The World of H.G. Wells" by Van Wyck Brooks is a critical analysis of the works and philosophies of the influential English writer H.G. Wells, written in the early 20th century. This book delves into the various phases of Wells's career, examining his views on science, socialism, human nature, and individual agency within society. It aims to illuminate Wells's transition from a fantastical storyteller to a humanist thinker who strives to integrate his scientific and socialist ideals with the complexities of human behavior. The opening of this work presents an overview of Wells's literary evolution, noting a significant shift in focus from imaginative adventures (like time travel and extraterrestrial encounters) to a keen interest in the social and psychological implications of human existence. Brooks posits that Wells acknowledges the limitations of pure science and optimism in shaping society and emphasizes the importance of individual will and action. The text suggests that as Wells's career progressed, he became increasingly concerned with how human beings relate to their environment and the potential for both individual and collective transformation, setting the tone for deeper explorations in subsequent chapters.