The Man of Letters as a Man of Business, and The Parlor Car

William Dean Howells, a prominent figure in American literature, is celebrated for his contributions as a novelist, critic, and playwright. Known as "The Dean of American Letters," he served as editor for The Atlantic Monthly and authored notable works such as "Christmas Every Day" and "The Rise of Silas Lapham." His literary career began in the Ohio State Journal, where he wrote and translated various works. Howells' deep appreciation for languages and literature, particularly his fascination with Heinrich Heine, shaped his influential writing style.