Author
Robert Lynd
1879-1949
Robert Lynd (1879-1949) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Robert Lynd
The Art of Letters
"The Art of Letters" by Robert Lynd is a critical collection focused on literary figures and their impact, written in the early 20th century. The work appears to examine writers from various periods, including Samuel Pepys, John Bunyan, and others, highlighting their unique contributions to literature as well as their personal lives and philosophies. Through Lynd's insightful analysis, readers gain a deeper understanding of not only the writers’ works but also the historical and cultural contexts in which they wrote. The opening of the book introduces the first chapter, which centers on Samuel Pepys, the famed 17th-century diarist. Lynd portrays Pepys as a complex character—part Puritan, part hedonist—who passionately chronicled both his mundane daily experiences and his more indulgent pursuits in a detailed diary. The narrative showcases Pepys's struggles with his faith, morality, and personal relationships, portraying him as a man caught between strict societal expectations and his desires. Throughout this exploration, Lynd effectively illustrates Pepys’s dual nature and the intricate interplay of his private and public personas.
Old and New Masters
"Old and New Masters" by Robert Lynd is a collection of literary essays written in the early 20th century. In this work, Lynd examines the lives and contributions of significant writers, including Dostoevsky, Jane Austen, and others, exploring their impact on literature and their distinct styles. The book likely provides in-depth critical analyses that juxtapose classic and contemporary literary figures, highlighting their thematic similarities and differences. The opening of the work begins with an exploration of Dostoevsky's sensationalism, where Lynd discusses how the author's characters exhibit extreme behaviors often bordering on madness. Intriguingly, Lynd reflects on how Dostoevsky's novels are filled with psychological depth, depicting a world characterized by radical emotions, violent actions, and moral conflicts. Correspondingly, he contrasts Dostoevsky's intense portrayal of humanity with the more genteel narratives of writers like Jane Austen, emphasizing the unique literary landscapes each author creates. This critical approach sets the stage for a broader discussion on the evolution of literary styles and the complexities of human nature as captured by various masters of writing.
Books and authors
"Books and Authors" by Robert Lynd is a collection of literary critiques written in the early 20th century. The work examines various authors, primarily focusing on their contributions to literature and their complexities as individuals. In this collection, Lynd provides insights into the lives and works of several literary figures, revealing the interplay between their personal experiences and their artistic expressions. The opening of this work introduces readers to Lynd's thoughts on the nature of literary criticism, emphasizing its value as an essential part of the literary environment. He reflects on the significance of writing about writers, acknowledging the mixed perceptions that critics often receive compared to the creators they analyze. The beginning also touches on the first discussed author, Robert Herrick, presenting him as a light-hearted, life-loving poet who found joy in fleeting things. Lynd effectively sets the tone for the rest of the collection, aiming to celebrate the nuances of these writers while providing a critical lens through which to appreciate their legacies.
The Pleasures of Ignorance
"The Pleasures of Ignorance" by Robert Lynd is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. The book reflects Lynd's explorations of the beauty and joy found within the realms of ignorance and simplicity, as he contemplates subjects ranging from nature and learning to human behaviors and experiences. The beginning of the book introduces the theme of ignorance through a stroll in nature, highlighting how many people, despite being surrounded by the wonders of the world, often lack a deep understanding or appreciation of it. Lynd notes how individuals may not even be able to identify common birds but nonetheless experience joy when they discover them anew each spring. He suggests that this ignorance leads to delightful moments of discovery and wonder, as the first encounter with nature's beauty is always fresh and exhilarating. Ultimately, he posits that the true pleasure lies in the journey of questioning and exploring the unknown rather than in the rigidity of possessing complete knowledge.
The Book of This and That
"The Book of This and That" by Robert Lynd is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. The essays explore various themes, reflecting on human nature, society, and the absurdities of everyday life, often delivered with wit and keen observation. The opening portion touches on the darker aspects of suspicion, unpacking its implications both in personal relationships and within larger societal contexts. At the start of the work, Lynd delves into the concept of suspicion, characterizing it as a damaging and pervasive force that affects both personal lives and public discourse. He uses vivid metaphors to describe this "beast," illustrating how suspicion distorts perceptions and fosters distrust among individuals. By drawing parallels between suspicion in personal relationships and its larger societal manifestations, Lynd critiques a culture increasingly plagued by unfounded doubts and conjectures. His incisive commentary sets the tone for an exploration of human emotions and societal flaws throughout the collection.