James Branch Cabell fu uno scrittore americano di narrativa fantasy e letteratura di pregio. Ben considerato dai suoi contemporanei, tra cui H. L. Mencken e Sinclair Lewis, il suo lavoro si allineava con la cultura escapista degli anni '20, periodo di massima popolarità. Cabell riteneva che la veridicità fosse "l'unico peccato imperdonabile, non solo contro l'arte, ma contro il benessere umano."
This classical work, regarded as significant throughout human history, combines humor with themes of innocence and discovery. The modern republication features a clear and readable format, ensuring that its wit and insights remain accessible to contemporary readers. The effort to preserve its legacy reflects a commitment to keeping this important text alive for future generations.
A Comedy in One Act
James Branch Cabell, an influential American author of fantasy fiction and belles lettres, began his career as a newspaper reporter before transitioning to writing short stories and articles for prominent national magazines. His literary contributions flourished in the early 20th century, and he became a pivotal figure in a collective of writers known as "The James Branch Cabell School," which included notable contemporaries like H. L. Mencken. Cabell's work is marked by extensive genealogical research and a unique blend of fantasy and literary style.
Set in the fictional province of Poictesme, the novel follows Manuel, an innkeeper's son, on his quest for social elevation and the love of the noble Countess Melicent. Infused with humor and satire, the story blends romance and fantasy while critiquing societal norms. Cabell's poetic style, inspired by 18th-century rococo art, enriches this exploration of ambition, identity, and the illusions of nobility. Through Manuel's journey, the narrative offers timeless reflections on human desires and the complexities of courtly love, making it a captivating read.
I met James Cabell at Hergesheimer's Dower House, where we were guests alongside Priscilla Percie and Fania. Later, we connected in Richmond, a town Joe and I loved to visit. By then, I had come to understand his reticences, rare enthusiasms, shyness—especially his disdain for New York—and his work methods. Initially, he resided in Dumbarton Grange, a somewhat dilapidated farmhouse on the town's outskirts, which Ellen Glasgow referred to in her novels as Queenborough. The name "Dumbarton Grange" felt grand for such a modest place, and when friends in New York asked for a description, I often recalled Glasgow's splendid early Victorian mansion with its elegant English furniture and crystal chandeliers. This contrast helped enhance Cabell's image as a wealthy landowner and gentleman of taste, benefiting both him and Glasgow. The publisher, Forgotten Books, specializes in reproducing significant historical works, utilizing advanced technology to maintain the original format while repairing imperfections found in aged copies. Though some flaws may remain, they are preserved intentionally to honor the historical integrity of the work.
Set in the fictional French county of Poictesme, this installment explores the intricate lives of Dom Manuel and his descendants, delving into themes of love, ambition, and the complexities of human relationships. The narrative blends fantasy with philosophical reflections, capturing the essence of Cabell's richly imagined world. Through its characters, the book examines the interplay between destiny and personal choice, offering a unique perspective on the challenges faced by those in pursuit of their desires.
Set in the fictional realm of Philistia, this comic fantasy explores the absurdities of societal norms and censorship through its inhabitants' rigid stance against indecency, which constantly shifts. The narrative serves as a clever critique of the critics and authorities who deemed Cabell's work inappropriate, reflecting the tensions between artistic expression and moral standards. Compiled from a fictional medieval manuscript, it offers a humorous yet poignant commentary on the nature of taboo and the complexities of cultural values.
Set in early 20th-century New York City, this satirical novel follows Felix Kennaston, a young artist grappling with the tension between his creative ambitions and the desire for societal acceptance. The narrative explores themes of ambition, vanity, and the conflict between art and commercialism as Kennaston navigates complex relationships and societal expectations. With witty dialogue and sharp commentary, the story critiques bourgeois society and the compromises artists make for recognition and financial stability, offering a thoughtful reflection on the artistic temperament.
Set in a fictionalized 13th-century France, the story follows Florian, Duke of Puysange, a disgraced nobleman with a secret longing for Melior, the daughter of King Helmas. Known for his dishonor and destructive nature, Florian struggles with his unfulfilled desires and the mystical Forest of Acaire. When a mysterious figure offers him a chance, he embarks on a quest to win Melior's heart. Blending fantasy and adventure, Cabell's work explores timeless themes of power and gender dynamics, making it relevant for contemporary readers.
Set against a backdrop where history intertwines with fantasy, the novel features Colonel Musgrave, a charming yet traditional man from a once-prominent Southern family. As a librarian, his influence is tied to his ancestors' legacy, but everything shifts when a modern cousin arrives, challenging his views on honor and chivalry. This comic romance explores themes of power dynamics and gender relations, revealing the timeless relevance of its issues. With its whimsical narrative, the book invites readers into a richly imagined world that resonates today.
Exploring the tension between societal indifference and the value of poetry, this collection delves into the lives of renowned poets like Alexander Pope and Robert Herrick. Through imaginative storytelling, Cabell reflects on whether poetry serves as a futile endeavor or a testament to one's commitment to lofty ideals. This engaging narrative invites readers to reconsider the significance of poetic expression in a world that often overlooks its worth.