The Letters of Henry James (Vol. II)

"The Letters of Henry James (Vol. II)" by Henry James is a compilation of personal letters from 1904 to 1909, offering readers a peek into the author's intellect and world. These letters document James's return to America after a long time away, shining light on what he thought about American society, his relationships with friends, and his views on books and art. As the book opens, James recounts his highly anticipated trip back to America in 1904, revealing his complex feelings as he rediscovers his roots. He tries to understand the America that has changed while he was gone, balancing a sense of longing with a desire to experience new things. His letters show both his personal goals and his literary desires, as he hopes to turn his experiences into stories while struggling to understand the fast-paced changes happening around him. The overall feeling of the letters is thoughtful mixed with excitement, giving a detailed look at the life and ideas of a famous writer.