The Making of the American Essay

The Making of the American Essay examines the evolution of the essay form in American literature from 1630 to the present day. This anthology collects significant essays from writers across four centuries, tracing the development of the genre. D'Agata serves as both editor and guide, providing context for each selection through historical background and literary analysis. The collection moves chronologically through American history, featuring works from established literary figures and lesser-known voices. Each essay represents a distinct approach to the form, from personal narratives to experimental compositions. The selections demonstrate how writers have pushed boundaries and redefined the possibilities of essay writing over time. This compilation reveals the essay's role as a vehicle for cultural commentary, personal expression, and artistic innovation in American letters. Through these works, patterns emerge about how writers have grappled with questions of identity, truth, and the relationship between fact and art.

Readers appreciate D'Agata's thorough research and ambitious scope in tracing the essay's evolution in America. Several reviewers note his inclusion of lesser-known writers alongside established voices. Positive reviews focus on: - Historical depth of selections - Fresh perspective on familiar works - Quality of annotations and context Common criticisms: - Selective history favors experimental works over traditional essays - Omission of important essayists - Academic tone can be dense Specific feedback from readers: "Too focused on avant-garde at the expense of mainstream essay development" - Goodreads reviewer "Strong on research but weak on readability" - Amazon review "Valuable resource despite gaps in coverage" - LibraryThing user Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (87 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (24 ratings) LibraryThing: 3.8/5 (31 ratings) The book maintains steady academic interest but hasn't gained broad readership beyond universities and writing programs.

A New History of the Essay by Patrick Madden This collection traces the development of the personal essay from ancient times through contemporary works, featuring both well-known and overlooked essays that shaped the genre.

The Art of the Personal Essay by Phillip Lopate This anthology presents essays from different cultures and time periods, illuminating the evolution of self-expression in nonfiction writing from ancient Japan to modern America.

The Next American Essay by John D'Agata The book examines experimental essay forms from 1974 to 2003, showcasing works that push boundaries between fact, fiction, and poetry.

Essays by Michel de Montaigne These revolutionary 16th-century writings established the personal essay as a distinct literary form and continue to influence contemporary essay writing.

The Lost Origins of the Essay by John D'Agata This collection traces the global origins of the essay form through ancient writings from Mesopotamia, Rome, China, and other civilizations.

🔹 The book is part of a groundbreaking trilogy on the essay's history, alongside "A New History of the Essay" and "The Next American Essay." 🔹 John D'Agata spent 15 years researching and compiling the anthology, which traces the essay form from 1630 to 1974. 🔹 The collection includes works from unexpected sources, such as Native American creation myths and early colonial religious texts, expanding traditional definitions of the essay format. 🔹 D'Agata's controversial approach to creative nonfiction has sparked debates in literary circles about the boundaries between fact and art in essay writing. 🔹 The book features writings from diverse voices including Susan Sontag, John McPhee, and Joan Didion, while also highlighting lesser-known but influential essayists.