"Literature and Life" by William Dean Howells is a collection of essays that explores the relationship between literature and everyday life. The book is divided into three parts: "The Man of Letters in the World," "The Man of Letters in Business," and "The Romance of the Commonplace." In the first section, Howells argues that literature should reflect the society it is created in, and that writers should not isolate themselves from the world. In the second section, he discusses the role of literature in business and how it can be used to promote ethical practices. Finally, in the third section, he celebrates the beauty and richness of everyday life, arguing that there is no need to resort to fantastical or unrealistic stories in order to find romance. Throughout the book, Howells advocates for a literature that is grounded in reality and that speaks to the experiences of ordinary people. He is critical of writers who prioritize style over substance, and he encourages his readers to engage with the world around them in order to create meaningful and authentic works of literature.
William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was an American novelist, literary critic, and editor who played a significant role in the development of American literature in the late 19th century. He was born in Ohio and worked as a printer's apprentice before becoming a journalist and eventually a fiction writer. Howells' most famous novels include "The Rise of Silas Lapham","A Hazard of New Fortunes," and "The Minister's Charge." He was also an influential literary critic and editor, serving as the editor of The Atlantic Monthly from 1871 to 1881 and advocating for realism in literature. Howells was a friend and mentor to many writers of his time, including Mark Twain and Henry James. He also played an important role in promoting the works of African American writers, such as Paul Laurence Dunbar. Throughout his career, Howells was known for his social commentary and his concern for social justice. He was a strong advocate for women's rights and was active in the abolitionist movement before the Civil War. Overall, William Dean Howells was a key figure in the development of American literature in the late 19th century, and his contributions as a novelist, critic, and editor continue to be studied and appreciated today.
