Benfey, Christopher E. G.

Recounts the story of the tightly knit group of nineteenth-century travelers who dedicated themselves to exploring and preserving Old Japan.

Discusses Edgar Degas's 1872 trip to post-Civil War New Orleans to meet his mother's family, suggesting that the visit elicited some of his finest paintings, and discusses the influence of some local writers.

Presents a selection of poems and letters written by Emily Dickinson along with biographical information and a critical analysis of her life and works.

Biography of American novelist Stephen Crane that identifies a curious pattern: Crane tried to live what he had already written.

Discusses the origins of American art by tracing the author's artistic family.