Poems

Name: Poems
Author: William Dean Howells

By William Dean Howells

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American Literature Poetry

About This Book

A varied sequence of short lyric and occasional narrative poems moves between river and seacoast scenes, domestic moments, portrait-gallery reveries, and imagined episodes. Many pieces meditate on memory, love, loss, and the passage of time, framing private feeling with vivid natural imagery and wry social observation. Tone shifts from playful and whimsical to elegiac and philosophical, and forms range in length and mode. Recurring motifs include traces of the past such as letters and scent, musical and vocal textures, and quiet reflections on faith, doubt, and the life of the poet.

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.