Longfellow A Rediscovered Life

Longfellow A Rediscovered Life by Charles C. Calhoun, published by Beacon Press on June 15, 2005, offers a comprehensive biography of the renowned American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Spanning 332 pages, this work delves into the life of Longfellow, exploring the reasons behind his decline in popularity and the impact he had on American literature. Calhoun presents a narrative that resembles a Victorian family saga, highlighting Longfellow’s contributions to introducing Americans to global literatures while also creating iconic American figures.

Readers will find an in-depth examination of Longfellow’s life, revealing the complexities of his character and the cultural context of the 19th century. The biography addresses significant themes in literary criticism and history, shedding light on Longfellow’s role in shaping American poetry and literature. Through this exploration, Calhoun aims to rekindle interest in Longfellow’s legacy and provide insights into why this influential literary figure has been largely forgotten.