Subject
Howells, William Dean, 1837-1920 -- Friends and associates Books
Best books
William Dean Howells
Literary Friends and Acquaintance; a Personal Retrospect of American Authorship
"Literary Friends and Acquaintances: A Personal Retrospect of American Authorship" by William Dean Howells is a reflective literary memoir written in the late 19th century. Howells, a prominent American author and literary critic, shares his intimate experiences and encounters with notable figures in American literature, particularly during his time in New England. The book aims to bring to life the rich tapestry of friendships and creative collaborations that shaped the literary landscape of his era. At the start of the memoir, the author establishes his deep immersion in literature, tracing his early career as a journalist in Ohio before his pilgrimage to the literary heart of New England. With a strong poetic ambition, Howells fondly recalls his first visit to this renowned region, illustrating his awe and excitement at meeting literary luminaries such as Longfellow, Lowell, and Emerson. The opening chapters reflect not only on his encounters with these authors but also on his personal journey as an aspiring writer, revealing his emotions, ambitions, and the cultural milieu that influenced his literary aspirations. Through vivid descriptions and earnest reflections, Howells sets the stage for a thoughtful exploration of the relationships and experiences that defined his career among his literary peers.
William Dean Howells
Cambridge Neighbors (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)
"Cambridge Neighbors (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)" by William Dean Howells is a reflective memoir written during the late 19th century. This literary work provides an intimate glimpse into the author's life and the rich intellectual environment of Cambridge, Massachusetts, where he interacted with various influential literary figures of his time. Howells captures the essence of friendships and social connections within the literary community, focusing on notable acquaintances and their contributions to literature and culture. In "Cambridge Neighbors," Howells recounts his experiences with remarkable individuals, such as Professor Francis J. Child and poet Hjalmar Hjorth Boyesen, as he reflects on both their personalities and their shared passion for literature. The narrative intertwines biographical sketches with personal anecdotes, revealing the warmth and camaraderie of the literary life in Cambridge. Through engaging stories and poignant observations, Howells illustrates the profound impact of these friendships on his own literary aspirations and the collective creative spirit of the time. The memoir serves as both a tribute to the friendships formed and a commentary on the vibrant literary culture that flourished in Cambridge during that era.
William Dean Howells
Studies of Lowell (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)
"Studies of Lowell (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)" by William Dean Howells is a biographical account penned in the late 19th century. This book reflects Howells' personal experiences and observations of the revered American poet and critic James Russell Lowell, focusing on their encounters and mutual conversations throughout a significant period of Lowell’s life. The narrative provides an intimate portrayal of Lowell's character, his literary pursuits, and the socio-political context of his times. In the book, Howells recounts vivid memories of his interactions with Lowell, emphasizing the intellectual depth and kindness of the poet. Their discussions range from literature to philosophy, showcasing Lowell's genuine affection for his friends and his complex views on democracy and societal issues after the Civil War. Howells appreciates Lowell's artistic sensibilities and his struggles with personal and public expectations, portraying a figure who is both a literary giant and a deeply human individual. Through his reflections, Howells contributes to an understanding of Lowell’s legacy, not only as a prominent literary figure but also as a compassionate friend and mentor.
William Dean Howells
Literary Boston as I Knew It (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)
"Literary Boston as I Knew It (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)" by William Dean Howells is a personal memoir that serves as a historical account of literary life in Boston during the mid to late 19th century. Composed in the era of post-Civil War America, the book provides insights into the influential writers and the literary scene of the period, focusing on prominent New England figures. The narrative explores the evolution of American literature and the unique character of Boston as a literary hub, reflecting Howells's deep admiration for his contemporaries and the cultural milieu they created. In this memoir, Howells recounts his experiences as he began his role at the Atlantic Monthly and the literary personalities he interacted with during his time in Boston. He vividly describes key figures such as Longfellow, Lowell, Emerson, and Whittier, painting a portrait of a vibrant literary community. Through anecdotes and observations, he highlights the interplay between literary traditions and the emerging voice of a more diverse American literature. The book also delves into themes such as the impact of puritanical values on artistic expression and the challenges faced by writers in remaining true to their vision while appealing to an evolving readership. Overall, Howells captures a formative period in American literary history, merging personal reflection with a broader commentary on the cultural landscape.
William Dean Howells
A Belated Guest (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)
"A Belated Guest (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)" by William Dean Howells is a reflective account written in the late 19th century. This work is a literary reminiscence, highlighting the author’s encounters with notable literary figures, notably Bret Harte, a prominent American author. The book captures the essence of Howells' experiences and observations, painting a vivid picture of the literary landscape of the time and the personalities that inhabited it. In this piece, Howells recounts his delightful week spent hosting Bret Harte, who was celebrated for his evocative stories set in California. Through a warm narrative, the text illustrates their interactions, emphasizing Harte's charming yet slightly chaotic nature, as he often arrived late to events and effortlessly captivated his hosts and fellow literati. Howells reflects on their conversations, Harte’s keen observations, and his somewhat ironical perspective towards literary conventions and celebrated personalities. This account serves not only as a tribute to Harte’s vibrancy as a guest but also as a commentary on the literary scene of his time, embodying a blend of reverence and lighthearted critique of the complexities surrounding literary fame and friendship.
William Dean Howells
My Mark Twain (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)
"My Mark Twain" by William Dean Howells is a collection of personal reminiscences and reflections written during the late 19th century. The book presents an intimate portrait of the celebrated author Samuel L. Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, showcasing his personality, friendships, and experiences throughout their long acquaintance. Howells shares stories that illuminate Twain's character, his humor, and his distinctive perspective on life, providing readers with a sense of the man behind the literary icon. The opening of the memoir introduces Howells's first encounter with Twain in the Boston office of James T. Fields, the editor of "The Atlantic Monthly", where they developed a friendship that would span over four decades. Howells reflects on Twain's unique fashion sense, his exuberant personality, and his approach to storytelling, hinting at the playful yet complex nature of their interactions. The narrative flows through memories of literary lunches, observations of Twain's habits, and insights into his family life, particularly his deep affection for his wife, Olivia. The introduction sets the stage for an engaging exploration of Twain's literary genius and personal quirks, promising readers an affectionate look at one of America's greatest writers.
William Dean Howells
My First Visit to New England, and Others (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)
"My First Visit to New England," by William Dean Howells, is a collection of autobiographical essays written during the late 19th century. The book captures the author's impressions and experiences as he embarks on his initial journey to New England, reflecting on its literary atmosphere, notable figures, and cultural landscape during a time of literary flourishing in America. Howells presents a vivid portrayal of his interactions with esteemed authors of the time, including James Russell Lowell, Oliver Wendell Holmes, and Nathaniel Hawthorne. At the start of the work, Howells sets the stage for his journey into the heart of American literature, expressing both excitement and trepidation as he prepares to meet the literary icons who have shaped his career. He shares his memories of his early career in journalism, the vibrant literary circles of Columbus, and the yearning that propelled him toward New England. As he travels through Portland, Salem, and Boston, Howells reveals his fascination with the local customs, landscape, and, most importantly, the literary giants whose works he admires. He humorously recounts his experiences meeting these authors, particularly his profound admiration for Lowell and his nervous encounter with Hawthorne, showcasing the significance of this first visit in the context of his literary aspirations. Overall, the opening portion of the book reflects Howells' youthful enthusiasm and reverence for the literary tradition that emerged from New England.
William Dean Howells
Oliver Wendell Holmes (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)
"Oliver Wendell Holmes (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)" by Howells is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the life and contributions of Oliver Wendell Holmes, a prominent figure in American literature and medicine, highlighting his relationships and impact on Boston's cultural landscape during the Unitarian era. Through Howells' reflections, the text provides insight into Holmes' literary legacy and social standing. In this work, William Dean Howells presents Oliver Wendell Holmes not just as a literary figure but as a beloved personality within Bostonian society. Through anecdotes and personal experiences, Howells paints a vivid portrait of Holmes as a man of great intellect and humor, deeply engaged with both the literary world and the common person. The text encapsulates Holmes's wit, affection for his city, and his ability to bridge high-minded literary pursuits with everyday life. It captures his friendships with other literary giants, his scientific curiosity, and his compassion, showcasing how his essence resonated with both the elite and the everyman. Howells' reflections on their interactions also reveal the complexities of Holmes's character and the underlying tenderness that informed his public persona.
William Dean Howells
Roundabout to Boston (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)
"Roundabout to Boston" by William Dean Howells is a collection of literary reflections and autobiographical anecdotes written in the late 19th century. This book encapsulates the author's experiences and connections within the literary circles of his time, particularly focusing on his life in Venice and the figures he encountered from American and European literature. It explores themes of ambition, recognition, and the struggles of a writer amid the socio-political backdrop of the Civil War. In the book, Howells shares intimate memories of prominent literary figures, including John Lothrop Motley, Henry Ward Beecher, and George William Curtis, highlighting his admiration for their work and the influence they had on his career as a writer. He recounts his journey from the defeats he experienced trying to publish his poetry to finding success in prose, particularly the letters he wrote about Venetian life. Through these personal stories and contemplations, Howells reflects on his growth as a writer, his longing for acceptance in the literary world, and the ups and downs of a writer's life, capturing both the vibrancy of 19th-century American culture and his deep-seated love for literature.
William Dean Howells
The White Mr. Longfellow (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)
"The White Mr. Longfellow" by William Dean Howells is a reflective literary piece written in the late 19th century. This work serves as a tribute to the esteemed American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, capturing the nuances of life in Cambridge, Massachusetts, among prominent literary figures of the time. Through Howells' reminiscences, the book delves into themes of friendship, intellectual camaraderie, and the artistic atmosphere of that era. In "The White Mr. Longfellow," Howells recounts his experiences and observations of Longfellow and the circle of eminent writers and scholars surrounding him, including James Russell Lowell and Charles Eliot Norton. The narrative unfolds around their gatherings in the Dante Club, where they engaged in scholarly discussions and critiques of Longfellow's translations of Dante's work. Howells paints an intimate portrait of Longfellow as a modest, gentle, and noble character whose artistic integrity and warm hospitality left a lasting impression on all who knew him. The narrative encapsulates not only the literary achievements of the time but also the personal warmth and social interactions that defined this vibrant intellectual community, ultimately offering a glimpse into Longfellow's legacy as a national treasure in American literature.
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