The book is a biography of Christopher Smart, an 18th-century poet who was known for his eccentric behavior and struggles with mental illness. The biography explores Smart's life, including his early years, education, and literary career, as well as his struggles with poverty, addiction, and mental health. It also examines Smart's relationships and friendships, particularly with other writers and intellectuals of the time. Throughout the book, Gosse provides insight into Smart's poetry and its significance within the context of 18th-century literature.
By Edmund Gosse · First published 1874 · Genre: Biography, Literary Criticism, Historical