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George Lyttelton - a former master at Eton - once complained at a dinner at which Rupert Hart-Davis - former Eton pupil, publisher and man of letters - was present, that he was bored and that no one ever wrote to him. This is a paperback collection of the celebrated correspondence that ensued. Rupert Hart-Davis reports from the front line of the London literary battlefield, when not pursuing Wildean minutiae for his famous edition of Oscar's letters, while George fulminates from his summerhouse on this age of jaw and how it darkens counsel. That thrawn old dyspeptic Carlyle is praised as much as the pernicious and joyless influence of F.R. Leavis is condemned. Equally, broad beans, fried sole and the right sort of cold ham are listed as foods never to be turned down.
This collection chronicles the intellectual and personal exchanges between a former Eton master and his former pupil, offering a window into mid-20th century British literary society and personal reflections. George Lyttelton, feeling bored and unwritten to, initiated a correspondence with Rupert Hart-Davis, a former student and established man of letters. Their letters reveal Hart-Davis's engagement with the London literary scene and his work on Oscar Wilde, while Lyttelton offers his critiques of contemporary culture and figures like F.R. Leavis from his secluded summerhouse. The correspondence balances highbrow literary discussion with the simple pleasures of food and daily life.
This selection of letters offers a vivid portrayal of intellectual life and personal reflection in mid-20th century Britain. The correspondence highlights the dynamic between a seasoned man of letters and his former pupil, showcasing their engagement with contemporary literary debates and their individual perspectives. The inclusion of personal anecdotes and reflections on daily life provides a grounded counterpoint to the literary discussions. The collection is likely to appeal to readers interested in literary history, biography, and the personal correspondence of notable figures.
Page Count:
368
Publication Date:
2003-01-01
Publisher:
John Murray
ISBN-10:
0719562104
ISBN-13:
9780719562105
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