Author

Clement King Shorter

1857-1926

Clement King Shorter (1857-1926) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.

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Subjects

Books by Clement King Shorter

Charlotte Brontë and Her Circle

"Charlotte Brontë and Her Circle" by Clement King Shorter is a biographical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the life and relationships of Charlotte Brontë, her family, and her contemporaries, adding new insights and letters that have not been previously published. The work seeks to present a more nuanced understanding of Charlotte and her sisters, challenging the notions established by earlier biographies, particularly that of Mrs. Gaskell. The opening of the book begins with a preface where Shorter acknowledges the contributions of various individuals who assisted him in compiling the new material about the Brontës. He expresses gratitude to friends and family who provided letters and information, highlighting the significance of these documents in painting a fuller picture of Charlotte's life. Additionally, the preface transitions smoothly into an overview of key figures in the Brontë family, including an exploration of Patrick Brontë and Maria Branwell, before launching into detailed accounts of Charlotte’s life and literary journey. Overall, the opening establishes the book's ambition to deepen the reader's appreciation of the Brontë sisters' literary legacy and the complexities of their lives, marked by personal struggles and creativity.

George Borrow and His Circle
 Wherein May Be Found Many Hitherto Unpublished Letters of Borrow and His Friends

"George Borrow and His Circle" by Clement King Shorter is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. The work focuses on the life of George Borrow, an eccentric author and linguist known for his interactions with various cultures and his adventures, particularly among the Romani people. The biography aims to shed light on Borrow's life and friendships, including many previously unpublished letters that reveal insights into his character and experiences. The opening of the book introduces George Borrow's background, detailing his birth into a peripatetic life influenced by his father's military career. It describes how Borrow spent his childhood traveling with his family, moving frequently from one place to another, which likely fostered his later wanderlust and fascination with different cultures. Additionally, it hints at the complexity of his family dynamics, especially the strong bond he shared with his mother, and sets the stage for exploring Borrow's relationships and formative experiences that shaped his literary career. This foundation establishes a rich narrative about a remarkable figure whose life was as colorful and varied as his writings.

Victorian Literature: Sixty Years of Books and Bookmen

"Victorian Literature: Sixty Years of Books and Bookmen" by Clement King Shorter is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work provides insights and reflections on various literary figures, movements, and significant works from the Victorian era, encapsulating the literature and cultural context of that time. It explores the evolution of literary tastes and critical opinion across generations, drawing connections between past authors and their enduring impacts on society. The opening of the book introduces the author’s ambition to provide a bibliographical perspective on Victorian literature within the context of Queen Victoria's reign. Shorter discusses the fluctuating status of poets and novelists, emphasizing how certain works and authors have faded from public memory while others have endured. He reflects on the critical reception of poets like Wordsworth and Tennyson and highlights the varying fortunes of novelists such as Dickens and Thackeray. The chapter sets the stage for a broader exploration of literature and its relationship with social and historical changes, showcasing the dynamic nature of literary appreciation over time.

The Life of George Borrow

"The Life of George Borrow" by Clement King Shorter is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the life of George Borrow, a well-known figure known for his travels and literary works, exploring his familial background, early life, and the influences that shaped his eccentric and wandering character. The opening of the biography sets the stage for George Borrow's life, detailing his birth in Dumpling Green, Norfolk, and the impact of his family's nomadic lifestyle due to his father's military service. The narrative introduces his parents, Captain Thomas Borrow and Ann Perfrement, highlighting their unique backgrounds and how these factors contributed to Borrow's traits and inclinations toward vagabondage. It provides insights into his family dynamics, particularly the contrast in favor given to his elder brother, John, and establishes a sense of place and time that will be pivotal in understanding Borrow's later pursuits and adventures as a writer and traveler.

Immortal Memories

"Immortal Memories" by Clement King Shorter is a collection of literary addresses and essays, written in the early 20th century. The book consists of commemorative speeches delivered at various literary gatherings, focusing primarily on notable figures in literature such as Dr. Samuel Johnson and William Cowper, among others. Through these essays, Shorter reflects on the lives and legacies of these literary giants, engaging readers in a discourse on their contributions to the literary canon. The opening of "Immortal Memories" introduces the concept of the book, revealing that the initial addresses were presented at celebrations or gatherings dedicated to honoring esteemed writers and literary figures. Shorter expresses a personal connection to the subjects, sharing anecdotes that highlight the pivotal moments in their lives and the impact they had on literature. His tribute to Dr. Samuel Johnson sets the stage, acknowledging the significance of Johnson's enduring influence while invoking the spirit of camaraderie among literary enthusiasts as they commemorate the vital contributions made by the authors he discusses. Overall, the opening provides a glimpse into both the personal and historical context of Shorter's reflections on literary immortality.