D. H. Lawrence investigates the underlying psychological and spiritual motivations within the foundational texts of American literature to uncover the 'American whole soul.' Lawrence, a prominent novelist and critic, applies his subjective and passionate analytical framework to deconstruct the works of canonical authors, arguing that the critic's role is to extract the inherent truth of a narrative independent of the artist's conscious intent. He utilizes a series of critical essays to challenge established interpretations of nineteenth-century American consciousness.

Critics and scholars frequently note that this work serves as a primary example of Lawrence's unique critical voice and intellectual intensity. While some readers find the prose unconventional and highly subjective, experts highlight it as a significant, if idiosyncratic, contribution to the study of American literary history.