Subject
Authorship Books
Best books
Oscar Wilde
Intentions
"Intentions" by Oscar Wilde is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century that delves into themes of art, morality, and aesthetics. The opening piece, "The Decay of Lying," is structured as a dialogue between two characters, Cyril and Vivian, who engage in a witty and philosophical examination of the nature of lying in art and literature. Wilde’s exploration indicates a belief in the transformative and essential role of art in society, while suggesting that modern realism diminishes creativity and beauty. The opening of "Intentions" presents a lively discussion between Cyril, who urges appreciation for nature, and Vivian, who dismisses it in favor of the comforts and creativity found indoors. Vivian argues that the decline of lying as an art form has led to the uninspired nature of contemporary literature, contending that art should reflect imagination rather than the mundane realities of life. Through sharp and humorous exchanges, Wilde sets the stage for a deeper critique of the societal values surrounding truth and beauty, ultimately championing the importance of artistic imagination over factual representation. This sets a thought-provoking tone for the essays that follow, inviting readers to reconsider their own understanding of art and its relationship with lies.
Robert Louis Stevenson
Essays in the Art of Writing
"Essays in the Art of Writing" by Robert Louis Stevenson is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century. This work explores various facets of the writing process and the nature of literature, emphasizing the significance of style, the moral responsibilities of authors, and personal reflections on influential works. Each essay examines different elements that contribute to effective writing, with Stevenson drawing from his own experiences and the broader context of literary tradition. The opening portion of the text begins with Stevenson's deliberation on the technical elements of literary style. He suggests that exploring the mechanics of art can sometimes spoil its magic, yet he endeavours to dissect the craft of writing systematically. He underscores the importance of word choice and the structure of sentences, likening literature to an architectural endeavor where the writer must create with fixed linguistic blocks. Furthermore, Stevenson shares his perspective on the dual nature of art as both representative and autonomous, emphasising that true literary elegance involves a thoughtful blend of rhythm, style, and substantive meaning. This initial exploration showcases Stevenson's authority on the subject while inviting readers into a thoughtful examination of the art of writing.
Willard Grosvenor Bleyer
How To Write Special Feature Articles A Handbook for Reporters, Correspondents and Free-Lance Writers Who Desire to Contribute to Popular Magazines and Magazine Sections of Newspapers
"How To Write Special Feature Articles" by Willard Grosvenor Bleyer is a handbook for aspiring reporters, correspondents, and freelance writers written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the craft of writing special feature articles designed for popular magazines and newspaper sections, serving as a practical guide for those looking to engage and inform a wide audience. Bleyer draws upon his extensive teaching experience to provide techniques and principles that can help novice writers gain the skills necessary to succeed in this genre. The opening portion introduces the concept of special feature articles and discusses their rise in popularity alongside magazines and segmented newspaper sections. Bleyer outlines how these articles are distinct from traditional news reports and literary works by blending detailed factual presentations with engaging, story-like narratives meant to resonate with the average reader. He emphasizes the necessity of identifying compelling subjects, the importance of an organized approach to writing, and the use of various narrative techniques to capture and maintain readers' interest. Overall, the introduction sets the stage for a thorough exploration of the subject matter that will provide aspiring writers with valuable tools to enhance their craft.
William Wallace Cook
The Fiction Factory Being the experience of a writer who, for twenty-two years, has kept a story-mill grinding successfully
"The Fiction Factory" by William Wallace Cook is a nonfiction work written in the early 20th century. The book recounts the experiences of the author, who devoted over twenty years to the art of writing, detailing the challenges and triumphs he faced while building his career as a successful fiction writer. It aims to provide insights into the world of writing and publishing, and it offers practical advice for aspiring authors, all while showcasing the author's evolution and resilience in a competitive industry. The opening of the book introduces readers to the author's pivotal moment when he decides to quit his job as a paymaster and dedicate himself entirely to writing. This decision, although fraught with anxiety and uncertainty, marks the beginning of his journey in the "Fiction Factory," where he produces a variety of stories and strives to find his place in the publishing world. Through a candid narrative, he shares his internal struggles, the support of his wife, and the motivation behind his commitment to storytelling, establishing a relatable and earnest foundation for the lessons that will follow throughout the text.
Antoine Albalat
Comment on devient écrivain
"Comment on devient écrivain" by Antoine Albalat is a guidebook on the art of writing, likely written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the journey of becoming a writer, covering various genres from novels to historical and scholarly writings, alongside discussions on literary criticism, journalism, and the processes involved in crafting literature. Albalat aims to provide valuable insights and warnings for aspiring writers, addressing the complex nature of literary vocation and success. The opening portion of the book discusses the inherent ambition of writing and the challenges of discerning true literary talent from mere aspiration. Albalat reflects on the frustrations of writers who overestimate their abilities and the societal pressures that accompany literary pursuits. He emphasizes the significance of talent and preparation while cautioning that many enter the literary field without the necessary groundwork. Furthermore, he points out the pitfalls of rushing to publish without refinement, advocating for a more thoughtful approach to writing, underscoring that true success in literature is rarely achieved without a solid foundation of skill and understanding.
Oscar Wilde
Intentions
"Intentions" by Oscar Wilde is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century. The work explores the complex relationship between art, beauty, and moral truths, often employing paradoxical statements to provoke thought. Wilde engages with various themes such as the nature of lies in art, the purpose of beauty, and the relationship between ethics and aesthetics, inviting readers to reflect on the depth and implications of artistic expression. The opening of "Intentions" presents a dialogue between two characters, Cyrille and Vivian, set in the library of a country house. Vivian expresses his disillusionment with nature and the lack of inspiration it provides, suggesting that an overemphasis on truth leads to a decline in the artistry of literature. His views challenge the conventional appreciation of nature, while proposing that art should elevate and transform experiences rather than merely reflect reality. As Vivian prepares to present his provocative article, titled "The Decline of Lie," he articulates a plea for the preservation of beauty and imagination in the face of modern realism, setting the stage for a broader exploration of Wilde's artistic philosophy throughout the text.
Grant M. (Grant Martin) Overton
Why Authors Go Wrong, and Other Explanations
"Why Authors Go Wrong, and Other Explanations" by Grant M. Overton is a critical examination of the common pitfalls that writers encounter in their craft, written in the early 20th century. The work is framed as an analytical discourse, where Overton discusses various authors and the reasons behind their literary failures. The central theme revolves around the moral and practical responsibilities incumbent upon writers, particularly the necessity of writing to earn a living while maintaining artistic integrity. The opening of the work establishes the complexity of why authors "go wrong," delving into the motivations and pressures that influence their writing. Overton introduces the idea that authors frequently misunderstand their obligations to their readers and society, often straying from commercial success in favor of personal convictions or artistic ideals. He uses examples from notable writers like Arnold Bennett and Winston Churchill to highlight a range of errors—from failing to prioritize financial success to confusing moralistic intent with literary quality. Ultimately, the beginning sets the stage for a deeper exploration of literature's intersection with ethics and public expectation, suggesting that understanding these dynamics is crucial for both authors and their audiences.
Various
My First Book: the experiences of Walter Besant, James Payn, W. Clark Russell, Grant Allen, Hall Caine, George R. Sims, Rudyard Kipling, A. Conan Doyle, M.E. Braddon, F.W. Robinson, H. Rider Haggard, R.M. Ballantyne, I. Zangwill, Morley Roberts, David Christie Murray, Marie Corelli, Jerome K. Jerome, John Strange Winter, Bret Harte, "Q.", Robert Buchanan, Robert Louis Stevenson, with an introduction by Jerome K. Jerome.
"My First Book" by Various is a collection of autobiographical essays written in the late 19th century. The authors included in this anthology, such as Rudyard Kipling, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and Jerome K. Jerome, share their experiences and reflections on the challenges and triumphs of their early writing careers. This compilation provides insights into the literary world of the time and highlights the perseverance required to succeed in literature. At the start of this collection, the reader is introduced to Jerome K. Jerome’s charming conversation with a young boy named Valentine in a park. Their discussion delves into Valentine’s aspirations to become an author, revealing his innocent love for storytelling and his sense of responsibility towards his mother. As they exchange their thoughts on literature, Valentine’s naive yet profound understanding of the calling serves to evoke nostalgia in Jerome, prompting him to reflect on the challenges faced by writers, the nature of good storytelling, and the importance of pursuing one’s passions amidst the trials experienced along the way.
Oscar Wilde
Στοχασμοί
"Στοχασμοί" by Oscar Wilde is a collection of essays and dialogues written in the early 20th century. The book delves into aesthetic and philosophical principles, exploring the significance of art and creativity in contrast to the mundane realities of life. Wilde, known for his keen wit and profound insights, underscores the importance of imagination and artistic expression through various discussions, primarily featuring characters discussing their beliefs. At the start of this work, the reader is introduced to the characters Κυρίλλος and Βίβιαν in a library setting, where they engage in a lively conversation about the nature of art and reality. Βίβιαν expresses a disillusionment with nature, claiming that the more one studies art, the less one appreciates the natural world, while Κυρίλλος advocates for experiencing the outdoor beauty. This exchange sets the stage for a broader critique of realism, as Βίβιαν plans to write an article titled “Η παρακμή της ψευδολογίας” ("The Decline of Falsehood"), emphasizing the importance of imaginative creativity in literature and art amidst the growing influence of a mundane and documentary-style approach in contemporary works. Through their discussion, Wilde establishes the thematic foundation of the book regarding art's elevated role in human experience.
Sherwood Anderson
The modern writer
"The Modern Writer" by Sherwood Anderson is an essay exploring the development of American literature and the challenges faced by writers in a diverse and rapidly evolving country. Written in the early 20th century, the book delves into the unique circumstances that shape American writing against the backdrop of a vast and varied landscape, as well as a cultural mosaic that makes national expression difficult. The work discusses the impact of industrialization, popular culture, and commercial pressures on the art of writing, suggesting that true art emerges from authenticity rather than the demands of mass appeal. In this critical examination, Anderson contemplates the role of the writer as a craftsman who must stay true to their materials—human lives and experiences—amid the distractions of commercialism and the standardization of taste. He argues that many contemporary writers prioritize success and mass acceptance over genuine expression, leading to a proliferation of subpar work. The essay champions the modern movement as a search for deeper meaning and connection through art, encouraging writers to prioritize honest, nuanced storytelling that reflects the complexity of human experience rather than conforming to popular formulas. Ultimately, Anderson presents a call to arms for writers to reclaim their craft, emphasizing that true fulfillment is derived from the work itself rather than external validation.
Hugo Erichsen
Methods of Authors
"Methods of Authors" by Hugo Erichsen is a literary examination of the creative processes and writing habits of various authors, written in the late 19th century. This work investigates the diverse methods employed by writers, shedding light on their unique rituals, environments, and artistic idiosyncrasies. The book encompasses a variety of topics, from composition eccentricities to inspirations gleaned from nature, presenting a rich tapestry of insights into the lives and practices of noted authors. The opening of "Methods of Authors" presents the author's preface and introductory remarks, establishing an interest in exploring how literature is crafted. Erichsen shares his initial doubts about the public's interest in such a subject, but reflects on the encouragement he received from established literati who recognized the book's potential value. He illustrates the variance in writing habits across authors through anecdotes and examples from literary figures, capturing their particular quirks, routines, and environments that stimulate creativity. The content suggests a rich exploration of literary personalities and the intricacies of the writing process, setting the stage for a detailed examination of how diverse influences shape authors' works.
Charles Phelps Cushing
If you don't write fiction
"If You Don't Write Fiction" by Charles Phelps Cushing is a practical guidebook on the nuances of non-fiction writing, published in the early 20th century. This book likely falls within the genre of a writing manual, focusing on journalism and article writing, specifically catering to aspiring freelance writers. The author offers insights into various aspects of writing and marketing non-fiction articles, tipped with personal anecdotes and reflections on the writer's journey in the publishing world. In the book, Cushing takes readers through a detailed exploration of the essentials required for succeeding as a freelance writer, emphasizing the importance of having a "nose for news," preparing manuscripts professionally, and understanding the market for potential stories. He discusses the challenges faced by new writers, providing practical advice on how to hone their craft, cover timely topics, and present material appealingly to editors. Cushing shares his own experiences navigating the tumultuous landscape of journalism, illustrating the ups and downs of the freelance writing life. Ultimately, he encourages readers to embrace continuous learning and experimentation in their writing journeys while stressing the value of perseverance in the face of rejection.
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