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Henry James, Jr.   By: (1837-1920)

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Henry James, Jr. by William Dean Howells is a captivating exploration of the life and literary career of one of America's most esteemed authors. Howells, himself a renowned novelist and critic, delves deep into the complexities of Henry James' life, shedding light on his upbringing, formative experiences, and the influences that shaped his unique writing style.

The book provides a comprehensive and nuanced portrait of James, painting him as a man of great introspection and intellectual prowess. Howells skillfully analyzes the various phases of James' life, from his formative years in a literary family to his travels in Europe and eventual settling in England. Through insightful anecdotes and personal reflections, Howells captures the essence of James' mental landscape, revealing a man deeply committed to the craft of writing.

One of the strengths of Howells' biography is his ability to seamlessly weave together the narrative of James' life with an analysis of his literary works. From the early realism of his novels to the later experimentation with perspective and psychological depth, the reader is provided with a detailed understanding of James' evolution as a writer. Howells' familiarity with James' extensive body of work allows him to draw connections and patterns that enrich our appreciation of James' literary genius.

Moreover, Howells goes beyond simply chronicling the life and works of Henry James. He delves into the cultural and social contexts of the time, providing valuable insights into the literary and intellectual milieu in which James operated. By exploring the influence of European authors and artistic movements of the period, Howells helps the reader understand the broader forces that shaped James’ artistic sensibilities.

The book is meticulously researched and meticulously written. Howells' admiration for James is evident throughout, but so is his commitment to presenting an unbiased account of his subject. The narrative flows smoothly, combining historical facts with personal anecdotes, resulting in a highly engaging read. Howells' prose is graceful and evocative, mirroring the literary style he so admires in his subject.

Perhaps the most significant aspect of Howells' biography is the depth of insight it offers into the inner world of Henry James. Through interviews with friends and family, as well as analysis of James' personal letters and diaries, Howells offers a glimpse into the mind of a writer known for his intricate psychological explorations. This intimate portrayal allows readers to connect with James on a deeper level, appreciating the fears, doubts, and triumphs that shaped his creative process.

In conclusion, Henry James, Jr. by William Dean Howells is an essential read for anyone interested in the life and works of Henry James. Howells' meticulous research, elegant prose, and comprehensive analysis make for an enlightening and thoroughly enjoyable biography. By delving into the complexities of James' life and literary achievements, Howells offers a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of one of America's most celebrated writers.

First Page:

HENRY JAMES, JR.

by

William Dean Howells

The events of Mr. James's life as we agree to understand events may be told in a very few words. His race is Irish on his father's side and Scotch on his mother's, to which mingled strains the generalizer may attribute, if he likes, that union of vivid expression and dispassionate analysis which has characterized his work from the first. There are none of those early struggles with poverty, which render the lives of so many distinguished Americans monotonous reading, to record in his case: the cabin hearth fire did not light him to the youthful pursuit of literature; he had from the start all those advantages which, when they go too far, become limitations.

He was born in New York city in the year 1843, and his first lessons in life and letters were the best which the metropolis so small in the perspective diminishing to that date could afford. In his twelfth year his family went abroad, and after some stay in England made a long sojourn in France and Switzerland. They returned to America in 1860, placing themselves at Newport, and for a year or two Mr. James was at the Harvard Law School, where, perhaps, he did not study a great deal of law. His father removed from Newport to Cambridge in 1866, and there Mr. James remained till he went abroad, three years later, for the residence in England and Italy which, with infrequent visits home, has continued ever since... Continue reading book >>




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