Mark Twain: A Biography. Volume II, Part 2: 1886-1900

"Mark Twain: A Biography. Volume II, Part 2: 1886-1900" by Albert Bigelow Paine is a biographical journey through the twilight years of Mark Twain, from 1886 to 1900, painting a portrait of his private life and literary endeavors. The biography illuminates Twain's shifting intellectual landscape, from his deep dive into Robert Browning's poetry, which he passionately shared with others, to his critical opinions of writers like George Meredith, showing the breadth of his literary engagement. His story also covers the author's evolving social conscience, his dalliances with new business opportunities, and his interactions with prominent figures of the era. While a transformation takes place, Twain finds comfort in returning to treasured books reminiscent of earlier days, all the while solidifying his legacy as a cultural icon.