The Common Man

The Common Man by Maurice Manning, published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in 2010, is a collection of 96 pages that presents a series of ballad-like narratives. Written in loose, unrhymed iambic tetrameter, this work honors the unique beauty of the Kentucky mountain country and the distinctive adventures and personalities of the author’s neighbors, friends, and family. Manning’s exploration reveals that no individual is truly common or simple, crafting a complex portrait of a fading aspect of American culture.

Readers will find a blend of serious and humorous tones throughout the narratives, which delve into philosophical and speculative themes while ultimately conveying a sense of tragedy. The collection reflects on literary subjects such as American culture and the experiences of women authors, offering a poignant commentary on life in a rapidly changing world. Manning’s sincere approach provides an accessible alternative to contemporary American verse, inviting readers to engage with the rich tapestry of stories that celebrate both the ordinary and the extraordinary.