The Lost Suitcase: Reflections on the Literary Life

by Nicholas Delbanco

Book Overview

We work, each one of us, in the deep dark with no notion of what lasts. With this phrase Nicholas Delbanco reveals one of his urgent concerns: Why does a writer write? How much of his work will seem meaningful to others?

In The Lost Suitcase Delbanco ruminates on the life of the writer and the significance of language as art. The title novella, a stunningly crafted story that is the book's centerpiece, takes as its central conceit...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0231115431
• ISBN13: 9780231115438
• Release Date: October 2001
• Publisher: Columbia University Press
• Length: 238 Pages
• Weight: 0.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 5.1" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

A thoroughly enjoyable reflection on the literary life

Once again Nicholas Delbanco serves up a masterful reflection on the literary life. His well-crafted insights from decades of shaping careful observations in written forms are to be savored. A must read for all readers, including both beginning and veteran writers, it is an enjoyable addition to the libraries of those who love books and those who love those who provide the content of books. His explorations of the anecdote based on Hemingway's life also serves as a metaphorical statement of the existential dilemma faced by all creative people: when will the Muse not bring the much-needed and promised luggage so the task(s) can be done.