A Belated Guest (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)

Name: A Belated Guest (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)
Author: William Dean Howells

By William Dean Howells

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About This Book

Howells offers a personal, reflective portrait of Bret Harte, opening with memories of the writer's celebrated arrival on the Atlantic shore and the social attention it drew. He balances affectionate anecdote and self-aware commentary on the pleasures and burdens of recording memories, describing Harte's appearance, charm, habitual tardiness, conversational gifts, and receptions in Cambridge and London. The essay contrasts the wild California origins that informed Harte's stories with the refinements of New England society, sketches his relations with other literary figures, and meditates on fame, aging, and the difficulty of choosing which recollections to preserve.

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.