Abstract
The editors state in the introduction that "by understanding the context of the writer's work, you are more likely to recognize key themes and stylistic traits as elements of larger trends in the literary world, as well as understand the impact of historical events from a new and unique perspective" (xxi). Novelists, essayists, poets, and dramatists are included, as well as diarists, journalists, critics, columnists, scientists, historians, sports writers, radio and television script writers and political figures.