Best Selling Books by John Hay

John Hay believed that “real history is told in private letters,” and the more than 220 surviving letters and telegrams from his Civil War days prove that to be true, showing Abraham Lincoln in action: “The Tycoon is in fine whack. I have rarely seen him more serene & busy. He is managing this war, the draft, foreign relations, and planning a reconstruction of the Union, all at once. I never knew with what tyrannous authority he rules the Cabinet, till now. The most important things he decides & there is no cavil.” Along with Hay’s personal correspondence, Burlingame includes his surviving official letters. Though lacking the “literary brilliance of [Hay’s] personal letters,” Burlingame explains, “they help flesh out the historical record.” Burlingame also includes some of the letters Hay composed for Lincoln’s signature, including the celebrated letter of condolence to the Widow Bixby. More than an inside glimpse of the Civil War White House, Hay’s surviving correspondence provides a window on the world of nineteenth-century Washington, D.C.

Manuscript prepared for and used as copy for the anonymous first printing of John Hay''s novel The bread-winners in The century magazine, beginning in August 1883; lacks the last three chapters (18-20, published in the January 1884 issue). Written in the hands of perhaps three or more copyists with emendations by Hay, and printer''s markings, which include the chapter titles. At the end of the volume, also in a copyist''s hand with his emendations, is Hay''s "open letter" published in the issue of March 1884. This letter is likewise anonymous, as were all book printings of the novel before 1916, when Hay''s name was added to the title page and the title was changed to The breadwinners

In his profound collection, "Poems," John Hay masterfully intertwines vivid imagery with introspective reflections on nature, love, and human existence. Hay''s unique literary style, characterized by succinct yet evocative language, captures the essence of the human condition—inviting readers into a contemplative space where emotional resonance meets the beauty of the natural world. Emerging from the literary context of the late 19th century, his poetry reflects the tension between the Romantic idealism of his predecessors and the burgeoning Modernist movement, positioning him as a pivotal figure in the evolution of American poetry. John Hay, a prominent statesman and diplomat, was also a gifted poet whose experiences greatly informed his literary voice. Having spent significant time in diverse locales, including the cultural epicenters of Europe, Hay drew inspiration from the landscapes and societal changes he encountered. His dual career—as an influential figure in American politics and a sensitive observer of life—shapes the depth of his work, bridging the gap between the personal and the universal. Readers seeking an enriching literary experience will find "Poems" a captivating exploration of the human spirit and its connection to the world. Hay''s poignant verses invite reflection and provoke thought, making this collection a must-read for those who appreciate the power of poetry to articulate complex emotions and transcend temporal boundaries.

John Hay''s ''The Bread-winners: A Social Study'' delves deep into the social and economic injustices faced by working-class individuals during the late 19th century. Through a careful examination of the lives of several families struggling to make ends meet, Hay masterfully captures the harsh realities of class division and the challenges of achieving upward mobility in a rapidly industrializing society. The novel''s realistic portrayal of poverty and exploitation is reminiscent of naturalist literature, highlighting the bleak conditions faced by many at the time. John Hay, a prominent American diplomat and author, drew inspiration for ''The Bread-winners'' from his own observations of society and his commitment to social reform. His background as a statesman likely shaped his perspective on issues of class and labor, contributing to the depth and authenticity of the novel''s social commentary. I highly recommend ''The Bread-winners: A Social Study'' to readers interested in exploring the impact of industrialization on working-class communities and the enduring struggle for social justice. Hay''s insightful narrative provides valuable insights into the complexities of class relations and the human cost of economic inequality.

In the afterword, Booth himself reflects on these essays, demonstrating firsthand the critical and ethical qualities he brings to his arguments.

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"The Breadwinners" from John Hay. American statesman, diplomat, author, journalist (1838-1905).

John Hay''s distinguished national service began when he was Lincoln''s private secretary and continued until up to his death as Secretary of State for two presidents. For a public man under scrutiny (including numerous biographies and Henry Adam''s insightful portrait in ""The Education of Henry Adams"") little is known about Hay and his anonymous commentaries, reviews and critiques written during the Civil War. Dr. Hill''s new monograph remedies that situation. As ""An Idler"" demonstrates, Hay was involved in a broad range of literary activities; as the War continued Hay''s interest in social and aesthetic themes became predominant. Professor Hill discusses Hay''s own battles with depression and how he believed his condition to be similar to Samuel Johnson''s in the 18th century as well as to his chief, Abraham Lincoln. Hay''s eloquent depiction of Washington in wartime, his critiques of jobbing and profiteering as well as his hopes for a new American cultural and social revival are all discussed in these pages. Excerpts of Hay''s writings as well as a discussion of his publishers (""Washington Chronicle"", ""Washington National Republican"", etc) are included along with a scholarly discussion of the effect of Hay''s writings on the larger public and on the closed circle of Lafayette Square(the Five of Hearts) and the White House.

The ballads tell of the rough and tumble lives of stage coach drivers, engineers, and dock workers along the Mississippi River.