American Literary Centers (from Literature and Life)

Name: American Literary Centers (from Literature and Life)
Author: William Dean Howells

By William Dean Howells

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Essays, Letters & Speeches

About This Book

The essay surveys the absence of a single American literary center, arguing that national writing has been decentralized and often regionally rooted. It traces earlier concentrations in Philadelphia, New York, and Boston and contends that a true national literature emerged after the Civil War as voices from the Pacific Coast, the Midwest, the South, and New England gained prominence. The author profiles regional movements and writers — San Francisco humorists, New England realists, Southern and Western chroniclers, and urban New York dramatists and novelists — and concludes that the chief strength of this dispersion is its honesty and fidelity to varied American life.

About the Author

William Dean Howells

William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was an influential American author and literary critic, often regarded as the "Dean of American Letters." He is best known for his realistic portrayals of American life and society, particularly in the late 19th century. Howells's works often explore themes of social class and morality, reflecting the complexities of contemporary life. His notable novel, "A Hazard of New Fortunes," delves into the challenges faced by individuals in a rapidly changing society. Throughout his career, Howells contributed significantly to the development of realism in American literature, advocating for a more truthful representation of everyday experiences.