Memories of a Hostess: A Chronicle of Eminent Friendships Drawn Chiefly from the Diaries of Mrs. James T. Fields

"Memories of a Hostess: A Chronicle of Eminent Friendships" by M. A. De Wolfe Howe is a historical exploration that centers on the life of Mrs. James T. Fields, a celebrated hostess who moved within Boston's literary elite during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The book chronicles her notable friendships, showcasing the personalities and stories of many influential authors and poets through her personal writings. It starts by introducing Mrs. Fields and detailing her desire to record and celebrate her connections with individuals who greatly impacted American literature. These records captured the essence and atmosphere of her celebrated social gatherings, revealing the importance she placed on friendships and displaying the vibrant exchanges among her distinguished guests, and set a tone of longing for times past, offering a detailed view of friendships within the literary realm.