Studies in Classic American Literature

by D. H. (David Herbert) Lawrence

"Studies in Classic American Literature" by D. H. Lawrence is a critical examination of American literature written in the early 20th century. The work seeks to explore the unique characteristics and artistic expressions found within the early American literary canon, focusing on significant writers such as Benjamin Franklin, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Edgar Allan Poe. Lawrence critiques the prevailing European influences on American literature while advocating for a recognition of the distinct American spirit present in its classics. The opening of the text begins with a foreword that sets the stage for the discussions to come. Lawrence asserts that America has struggled to define its own identity in art and literature, often clinging to European ideals while failing to recognize a unique American voice. He challenges his readers to delve into early American literature, suggesting that it reflects a deeper truth about the American psyche rather than mere children's tales as commonly perceived. Through sharp critiques, he examines the essence of America's artistic spirit, advocating for an understanding of the underlying emotions and experiences conveyed through the works of authors like Franklin and Cooper.