Oscar Fay Adams
A Brief Handbook of English Authors
"A Brief Handbook of English Authors" by Oscar Fay Adams is a reference work written in the late 19th century. This handbook aims to provide concise information about notable English authors, their works, and their contributions to literature. It serves as an accessible resource for readers and students who may need quick references rather than delving into more extensive biographical texts. The opening of the book sets the stage for its purpose and structure, emphasizing its usability for everyday reference. Adams acknowledges the prominence of "conventional immortality" in the literary sphere, suggesting that many authors included are recognized more for circumstance than literary merit. It also hints at the vast and sometimes random nature of literary legacy, where many names survive in collective memory without a clear distinction of their merits. Overall, this introductory portion underscores the importance of both recognition and the varying degrees of literary influence that authors can have over time.