Subject
American literature -- 20th century -- History and criticism Books
Best books
Fred Lewis Pattee
A History of American Literature Since 1870
"A History of American Literature Since 1870" by Fred Lewis Pattee is a scholarly analysis written in the early 20th century. This historical account focuses on the evolution and characteristics of American literature following the Civil War, categorizing the literary output into periods marked by significant cultural shifts. The book likely examines various authors and movements, emphasizing the growth of a national literature that reflects the American spirit and identity post-war. The opening of the text establishes a framework for understanding how the Civil War served as a pivotal turning point in American literature. It discusses the profound impacts of the war on societal structures, shifting from a provincial to a more unified national outlook. The author outlines the emergence of new literary figures and movements that arose in the wake of these changes, such as the rise of realism and the reflections of America’s varied landscapes and cultures in its literature. Pattee aims to illustrate how American writers began to cultivate their voices, drawing inspiration from their own experiences and surroundings rather than relying predominantly on European influences.
Grant M. (Grant Martin) Overton
Cargoes for Crusoes
"Cargoes for Crusoes" by Grant M. Overton is a collection of literary essays written in the early 20th century. The book explores a range of topics related to literature and the authors of the time, mixing both analytical reviews and insights into the works of contemporary writers. In this volume, Overton reflects on the joys of reading and the impact of literature on personal experience and growth, emphasizing the adventures found within the pages of books." The opening of "Cargoes for Crusoes" introduces a fascinating premise: the fictional Robinson Crusoe recounts how he survived his island loneliness through the unexpected arrival of a shipwrecked cargo of books. Expressing joy at discovering this literary treasure, he immerses himself in reading, claiming it has saved him from boredom. The narrator emphasizes the profound effect that literature has had on his life, engaging with various characters and authors as companions in his solitude. The preface sets the tone for an exploration of the value of books and their ability to offer both instruction and entertainment, leading into the following essays that delve into the works of various authors he admires.
Grant M. (Grant Martin) Overton
American nights entertainment
"American Nights Entertainment" by Grant M. Overton is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. The book reflects on notable authors and their works, highlighting the evolution of literary interest in America, especially following World War I. It delves into the lives and styles of prominent writers, offering unique insights into their personalities and contributions to literature. At the start of the book, Overton introduces the surge in the reading culture of the early 1920s, emphasizing the growing interest in authors and their backgrounds. He discusses the collaboration of multiple publishers in bringing this work to fruition, suggesting a collective excitement for literature. Overton’s preface sets the tone for a comprehensive examination of contemporary authors, discussing the significance of their works and their individual styles, with a focus on how these elements resonate with the increasing readership of the time.
Grant M. (Grant Martin) Overton
When Winter Comes to Main Street
"When Winter Comes to Main Street" by Grant M. Overton is a collection of literary essays written in the early 20th century. The work encompasses discussions and appreciations of prominent authors and their contributions, aiming to celebrate quality literature and introduce readers to a range of notable works. It seems to explore themes of authorship and the literary landscape, providing insights into various writers of the time. The opening of the book sets the tone with Overton's preface, where he acknowledges the influence of successful contemporary novels and expresses his intent to engage readers with literary discussions. He pays homage to influential authors such as Hugh Walpole, encapsulating his life and literary journey, and hints at the personal reflections that will follow in subsequent chapters. Overton's tone is both conversational and informative, revealing his passion for literature and insightful commentary on the writers he examines, which sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the writers and works that shaped the literary culture of his era.
Henry Seidel Canby
Definitions: Essays in Contemporary Criticism [First Series]
"Definitions: Essays in Contemporary Criticism [First Series]" by Henry Seidel Canby is a collection of critical essays written in the early 20th century. In this work, Canby explores the multifaceted nature of contemporary literature, especially how it intertwines with American culture and social dynamics. His essays aim to dissect various genres and themes, providing insights into how sentimentality, idealism, and the societal backdrop influence both writers and readers in the realm of fiction. At the start of the collection, Canby elaborates on the nature of American literature, particularly its inclination toward sentimentality. He contrasts the pragmatic and often hard nature of American life with the preference for emotionally charged, soft literature that tends to idealize its characters and plots. Canby critiques this tendency, suggesting that while sentiment and idealism are inherent to the American psyche, they often lead to a detachment from reality in storytelling. He sets the stage for an examination of the influences shaping fiction, including cultural conditioning, societal expectations, and the aspirations served by popular narratives, marking a critical pathway through which readers can deepen their understanding of the literary landscape of their time.
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