Subject
Authors, American -- 19th century -- Correspondence Books
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Henry David Thoreau
Familiar Letters The Writings of Henry David Thoreau, Volume 06 (of 20)
"Familiar Letters" by Henry David Thoreau is a collection of personal correspondence written in the mid-19th century. This work provides an intimate glimpse into Thoreau's thoughts and relationships with his family and contemporaries, particularly focusing on his connections to nature, philosophy, and the social issues of his time. The letters reveal Thoreau's character as a thinker, teacher, and poet who was deeply engaged with his immediate environment and broader existential questions. At the start of the volume, we are introduced to Thoreau's early life and his formative years in Concord. The opening letters are addressed to his siblings, highlighting his experiences and observations as a young man. Thoreau reflects on themes of individuality, freedom of thought, and the importance of experiencing nature. In these initial correspondences, he conveys his characteristic wit and moral reflections, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of his philosophies and the influences he drew upon throughout his life. The letters not only serve as a personal narrative but also illustrate Thoreau's evolving perspectives on life, society, and the human connection to the natural world.
Henry James
The Letters of Henry James (Vol. I)
"The Letters of Henry James (Vol. I)" by Henry James is a collection of correspondence written in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This volume serves as an insightful exploration of James's life through his letters to family, friends, and notable contemporaries, providing readers with a glimpse into the thoughts and experiences of one of America's foremost literary figures. The letters highlight James’s complex relationship with Europe, his artistic endeavors, and his reflections on both personal and artistic matters. The opening of the book introduces the context of the letters, starting with Henry James's early years as he arrives in Europe for the first time in 1869. The text elaborates on his initial impressions of London, where he grapples with feelings of both awe and isolation in the vast metropolis. His correspondence reveals his engagements with prominent literary figures of the time, such as Ruskin and W. D. Howells, showcasing his social interactions and artistic observations. Through these letters, readers can perceive James's evolving identity as both an American expatriate and a burgeoning writer, immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of Europe while grappling with his own sense of belonging.
Nina H. Kennard
Lafcadio Hearn
"Lafcadio Hearn" by Nina H. Kennard is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative focuses on the fascinating life and letters of Lafcadio Hearn, a unique figure known for his contributions to literature and his interpretations of Japanese culture. The book explores his complex family background, his struggles with personal identity, and his search for beauty amidst adversity, showcasing the essence of a man often considered an outsider. The opening of the biography sets the stage for understanding Lafcadio Hearn's life, beginning with reflections on his ancestry and early influences. It introduces readers to Hearn's father, Charles Bush Hearn, and his mother, Rosa Tessima, highlighting the cultural and personal challenges that shaped his formative years. The text sketches his early memories and distinct traits, suggesting a sensitive character deeply affected by his mixed heritage and seeking a connection to his roots. Through letters to his half-sister Mrs. Atkinson, delivered with affectionate playfulness, we get clues to his profound introspections about family, identity, and the quest for understanding in a world filled with complexity, foreshadowing the life and legacy he would later create.
Henry James
The Letters of Henry James (Vol. II)
"The Letters of Henry James (Vol. II)" by Henry James is a collection of correspondence written in the early 20th century. This volume spans the years 1904 to 1909 and serves as a window into James's thoughts and experiences during a significant period in his life, particularly highlighting his return to America after many years abroad. The letters reflect his observations on American culture, his friendships, and his reflections on literature and art. At the start of this volume, Henry James shares insights into his much-anticipated visit to America in 1904. He describes his overwhelming experiences as he reconnects with his homeland and the myriad emotions that arise in revisiting places from his youth. He expresses a longing to absorb the essence of the America that has evolved during his absence, feeling both nostalgia and curiosity. His reflections reveal a blend of personal and literary ambitions, as he yearns to translate these sensations into prose, though he grapples with the challenge of capturing the rapid changes around him. The letters set a tone of introspection mingled with a sense of adventure, providing a rich context for readers interested in the life and thoughts of one of literature's great figures.
Mark Twain
Mark Twain's Letters — Volume 4 (1886-1900)
"Mark Twain's Letters — Volume 4 (1886-1900)" by Mark Twain is a collection of personal letters written during the late 19th century. This volume showcases Twain's reflections on his life, family, and experiences, alongside insightful commentary and anecdotes that provide a glimpse into his character and the historical context of the time. The letters cover a variety of topics, including family dynamics, literary ambitions, and social commentary, making the correspondence a rich tapestry of Twain's thoughts and the world around him. The opening of the book introduces readers to Twain's domestic life and theatrical pursuits, highlighting the preparations for a surprise performance of "The Prince and the Pauper" by his family and friends. The letters reveal Twain's dynamic relationship with his mother and contemporaries, shedding light on his humor and sensitivity. For instance, Twain shares a heartfelt letter about his mother's past romance, illustrating both her long-buried emotions and his empathy towards her. As he navigates personal anecdotes and broader observations, the opening not only establishes the tone of the correspondence but also sets the stage for an engaging exploration of Twain's personal and literary life.
Mark Twain
Mark Twain's Letters — Volume 1 (1853-1866)
"Mark Twain's Letters — Volume 1 (1853-1866)" by Mark Twain is a collection of personal correspondence that offers insight into the early life and thoughts of one of America's most celebrated authors, written during the mid-19th century. The letters span Twain's formative years from his early attempts at journalism to his experiences as a riverboat pilot. Collectively, they reflect his character, ambitions, and evolving style, painting a vivid picture of the man behind the literary persona. The opening of this collection introduces readers to Twain as a young man navigating the world from his hometown of Hannibal, Missouri, to bustling cities like New York and Philadelphia. Through his letters to family and friends, he conveys a mix of ambition, homesickness, and youthful exuberance. He describes his experiences at the World's Fair in New York, shares insights about his jobs in various printing offices, and expresses his dreams of adventure, including a brief detour he contemplates towards South America. Overall, the early letters reveal the relatable struggles of a young writer finding his footing and hinting at the wit and humor that would later define his literary greatness.
Mark Twain
Mark Twain's Letters — Volume 3 (1876-1885)
"Mark Twain's Letters — Volume 3 (1876-1885)" by Mark Twain is a collection of personal correspondence written during the late 19th century, offering insights into Twain's life, thoughts, and literary friendships. The letters primarily focus on his relationship with fellow author W. D. Howells, covering a range of topics including literature, politics, personal struggles, and creative endeavors. At the start of this volume, Twain writes to Howells, detailing his activities as a member of the Monday Evening Club in Hartford and discussing his writing projects, including the well-received "Tom Sawyer." He shares updates on his health, hints at his collaborations with Bret Harte, and expresses his deep appreciation for Howells's critical feedback. Twain's correspondence reveals his blend of humor and introspection, as he navigates both the mundane and profound aspects of his life and career during this dynamic period. This section sets the tone for a candid exploration of the literary landscape of the time as well as Twain's evolving thoughts on his own works and those of his contemporaries.
Richard Harding Davis
Adventures and Letters of Richard Harding Davis
"Adventures and Letters of Richard Harding Davis" by Richard Harding Davis is a collection of autobiographical sketches and letters, likely crafted in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around Davis's life, detailing his early experiences, education, and budding career as a journalist and author. The themes of familial influence, the impact of upbringing, and the exploration of identity in the face of societal expectations are prevalent in the early chapters, showcasing the author's formative experiences that shaped his literary career. At the start of this compilation, the reader is introduced to the author's childhood in Philadelphia, where he grew up in a nurturing yet demanding household. His early days are filled with camaraderie with his brother, and they often engaged in makeshift plays and adventurous explorations of their environment. As Richard transitions into his schooling years, he grapples with the pressures of academic performance while exhibiting a strong moral compass, often rallying against injustices in his academic environment. The opening chapters illustrate the interplay of Richard’s early creative instincts and the support from his family, setting the stage for his future endeavors in writing and journalism.
Mark Twain
Mark Twain's Letters — Complete (1853-1910)
"Mark Twain's Letters — Complete (1853-1910)" by Mark Twain is a collection of personal correspondence spanning the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Through these letters, readers gain insight into the life, thoughts, and character of one of America's most iconic authors. The letters are a reflection of Twain's experiences, humor, and philosophical musings, detailing his evolution from a young printer to a celebrated humorist and social commentator. At the start of the book, Twain’s early letters reveal a youthful and ambitious Samuel Clemens, who is just beginning to navigate the world away from his small-town beginnings. The opening portion includes a fragment of a letter to his sister Pamela from the summer of 1853, where he details a visit to the Great Exhibition in New York, expressing wonder at the spectacle of the event while also reflecting on his family's circumstances. He writes with a mix of earnestness and youthful bravado, painting a portrait of a young man filled with dreams and aspirations as he embarks on a journey that will shape his literary career. The early letters capture both the excitement of Twain's adventures and the familial bonds that informed his character, setting the stage for a lifetime of rich and varied correspondence.
Mark Twain
Mark Twain's Letters — Volume 2 (1867-1875)
"Mark Twain's Letters — Volume 2 (1867-1875)" by Mark Twain is a collection of personal correspondence written during the late 19th century. This volume provides an intimate glimpse into Twain's life as he navigates his professional career, personal relationships, and experiences while traveling. Throughout these letters, Twain engages with friends and family, often sharing his thoughts on his writing projects and travels, as well as his feelings of excitement, frustration, and humor. At the start of the volume, Twain addresses his close acquaintances and family members, discussing the launch of his book and his upcoming lecture engagements. He expresses a certain tension between his busy schedule and the anticipation of his sea voyage, showcasing his characteristic humor and wit. Initial letters reveal his relationship with fellow writers and the anxieties associated with public performances. As he embarks on his journey, Twain shares brief updates from various ports, detailing his encounters, impressions, and the quirks of international travel. The beginning sets the stage for a vivid exploration of Twain's formative years, filled with rich anecdotes that hint at the experiences that would later inform his celebrated literary works.
Mark Twain
Mark Twain's Letters — Volume 6 (1907-1910)
"Mark Twain's Letters — Volume 6 (1907-1910)" by Mark Twain, arranged with commentary by Albert Bigelow Paine, is a collection of correspondence written during the early 20th century. This volume captures the thoughts and experiences of Twain as he received an honorary degree from Oxford, moved into his new home at Redding, Connecticut, and navigated the joys and sorrows of his personal life, including family matters and his evolving health. The letters provide insight into Twain's reflections on human nature, literature, and society, revealing not only his famed humor but also his deeper philosophical musings. In this volume, readers encounter Twain's delightful wit as he engages with a variety of friends and associates, addressing themes such as the absurdity of societal norms, the value of literary contributions, and personal challenges following the death of his daughter, Jean. His letters showcase memorable interactions, from congratulatory expressions to critiques of contemporary literature, while also revealing his vulnerability. Through his correspondence, Twain shares his admiration for the arts, the satisfaction found in familial bonds, and the contemplation of mortality, making this collection a poignant tribute to a literary giant navigating the later years of his remarkable life.
Thomas Carlyle
The Correspondence of Thomas Carlyle and Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1834-1872, Vol. I
"The Correspondence of Thomas Carlyle and Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1834-1872, Vol. I" is a collection of letters written between 1834 and 1873. This remarkable exchange between two literary giants spans nearly four decades, beginning with their first meeting at a remote Scottish farmhouse. The letters chronicle their deep intellectual bond, collaborative publishing ventures, and evolving friendship across an ocean. Political differences—particularly regarding the American Civil War—test their connection, yet their mutual respect endures. These intimate documents reveal the personal struggles, philosophical debates, and profound affection between two of the nineteenth century's most influential thinkers.
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