Between the Dark and the Daylight

William Dean Howells

Nov 2019 · Good Press

About this ebook

William Dean Howells' novel "Between the Dark and the Daylight" is a poignant exploration of moral dilemmas and societal issues in the late 19th century America. Howells' realistic and naturalistic writing style captures the complexities of human emotions and relationships, providing readers with a vivid portrayal of the time period. The novel delves into themes of social class, gender roles, and personal ethics, weaving a compelling narrative that challenges the reader's assumptions and beliefs. Howells' attention to detail and nuanced character development make this a timeless piece of literature that remains relevant today. As a prominent figure in the literary realism movement, Howells brings a depth of insight and sensitivity to his work that sets him apart from his contemporaries. His own experiences as an editor and critic likely influenced his choice to explore these themes in his writing, adding a layer of authenticity to the novel. I highly recommend "Between the Dark and the Daylight" to readers interested in thought-provoking literature that delves into the moral complexities of human nature.

About the author

William Dean Howells was born on March 1, 1837, in Martin's Ferry, Ohio. Howells was forced to drop out of high school to work as a typesetter for his father. He later taught himself, becoming adept at German and Spanish. He soon became a reporter, eventually becoming editor of The Atlantic Monthly and Harper's magazines, as well as a literary critic. During his lifetime, Howells rubbed elbows with the great American authors of his day, such as Nathaniel Hawthorne and Ralph Waldo Emerson. In 1861, he received a consulship at Venice, returning to the U.S. several years later to become assistant editor for The Atlantic Monthly. While his accomplishments are centered in the world of journalism, he also wrote numerous volumes of poetry and novels, such as The Undiscovered Country and A Chance Acquaintance. This last book, like many of his novels, was originally published in serial installments in The Atlantic Monthly. Many of his writings explore the changing face of society in America, often contrasting it with life in Europe. Howells's other significant contribution to literature was his notice of and commentary on the merits of Henry James and Mark Twain. He received several honorary degrees from universities as well as a Gold Medal for fiction (later renamed after him as the Howells Medal) from the National Institute of Arts and Letters. He died on May 11, 1920 in New York City.