Rise of Silas Lapham

This collection provides a wealth of insight into the life and work of Henry James Howells, showcasing his correspondence, notebooks, and revisions to his novel, offering a unique perspective on the writer's process and the social and cultural context of his time.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 528 pages
Publication date: 04 September 2018
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

Rewritten text:

In this captivating collection, we delve into the rich tapestry of Henry James Howells' life and work. We are privy to a treasure trove of correspondence, spanning from his early years to his final days, providing a profound insight into the mind and heart of this renowned author.

The letters, penned with a keen wit and a profound understanding of human nature, reveal Howells' intimate relationships with his friends, colleagues, and literary contemporaries. From his witty banter with fellow writers like William Dean Howells and Gertrude Stein to his heartfelt exchanges with his family and loved ones, these letters offer a glimpse into the personal and professional life of a master storyteller.

Furthermore, we are treated to a glimpse into Howells' notebooks, where he jotted down his thoughts, ideas, and observations. These notebooks, filled with raw and unfiltered prose, offer a unique window into Howells' creative process and the inspiration behind his literary masterpieces.

Additionally, this collection includes a section that delves into Howells' changes to two specific controversial passages from his novel, "A Mind That Found Itself." These revisions, made in response to criticism and public debate, demonstrate Howells' commitment to artistic integrity and his willingness to engage with his readers on sensitive and challenging topics.

Through this comprehensive collection, we gain a deeper appreciation for Howells' literary genius, his social and cultural significance, and his enduring influence on the world of literature. Whether you are a scholar, a lover of literature, or simply someone interested in the rich history of American letters, this collection is a must-read for all who seek to explore the life and work of Henry James Howells.

Henry James Howells, a prominent American author of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, left behind a rich and diverse body of work that continues to captivate readers to this day. In this collection, we delve into the life and letters of Howells, providing a comprehensive view of his literary career and the social and cultural context in which he operated.

Howells' correspondence is a treasure trove of insights into his personal and professional life. From his early years to his final days, he maintained a close network of friends and colleagues, including William Dean Howells, Gertrude Stein, and Mark Twain. These letters reveal his witty banter, his deep affection for his family and friends, and his struggles with personal and professional challenges.

In addition to his letters, this collection includes material from Howells' notebooks, which provide a glimpse into his creative process and the inspiration behind his literary masterpieces. His raw and unfiltered prose reveals his deep thoughts and observations on a wide range of subjects, from literature and politics to social and cultural issues.

One of the most significant aspects of Howells' career is his response to criticism and public debate. In the section detailing his changes to two controversial passages from his novel "A Mind That Found Itself," we see Howells' commitment to artistic integrity and his willingness to engage with his readers on sensitive and challenging topics.

Howells' novels, essays, and short stories are known for their insightful portrayal of American society. He was a keen observer of human nature and a master of social satire, using his writing to explore the complexities of American society and the challenges faced by individuals and communities.

In conclusion, this collection is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the life and work of Henry James Howells. It provides a comprehensive view of his literary career, his social and cultural significance, and his enduring influence on the world of literature. Through his letters, notebooks, and revisions to his controversial passages, Howells emerges as a fascinating and complex figure, whose writing continues to resonate with readers today.

Weight: 552g
Dimension: 134 x 213 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780393922424
Edition number: Critical ed