"Authors and Friends" is a collection of essays written by Annie Fields, a prominent literary figure of the late 19th century. The book includes personal reflections on her relationships with several authors of the era, including Nathaniel Hawthorne, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and John Greenleaf Whittier, among others. Fields provides unique insights into the personalities and creative processes of these writers, offering a glimpse into their private lives and the social circles in which they moved. She also includes essays on the publishing industry, including discussions on the importance of book covers and the role of publishers in shaping the literary landscape. Throughout the book, Fields presents herself as an avid reader and literary enthusiast, expressing her admiration for the works of these authors and celebrating the importance of literature in shaping society.
Annie Fields (1834-1915) was an American author and literary hostess. She was born in Boston and grew up in a literary household, with her father being a journalist and her mother a poet. Fields was educated at home and became a writer herself, publishing poetry and essays in various publications. In 1854, she married publisher James T. Fields and became a prominent figure in Boston's literary scene. The couple entertained many famous writers of the time, including Nathaniel Hawthorne, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Fields wrote several books, including "Authors and Friends," which consists of biographical sketches of her literary acquaintances. She also edited the letters of Sarah Orne Jewett and Mary Russell Mitford. In addition to her writing, Fields was active in social causes, such as prison reform and the welfare of soldiers during the Civil War.
