NetGalley 4 stars Last updated on 05 Nov 2021. "My thanks to NetGalley and Rowman & Littlefield for a copy of this literary study on the lives and deaths of authors. Being an artist means being answerable to various voices: critics, editors, and, most importantly, the internal voices that drive creation or halt it altogether. These internal dialogues can distort art and lead to personal turmoil, sometimes resulting in tragic outcomes for the artist, regardless of their success. In this exploration, Mark Seinfelt examines the lives of writers who ended their journeys prematurely, including well-known figures like Sexton, Plath, and Hemingway, as well as lesser-known poets and authors like Trakl, Teasdale, and Ross Lockbridge. Each faced unique challenges—financial struggles, health issues, addiction, and fading talent—all exacerbated by relentless inner voices. Each chapter serves as a mini memoir, detailing the writer's upbringing, notable works, conflicts, and personal struggles. The historical context of each author's life is also considered, particularly for those less frequently covered in biographies. This is not a book to skim; it reflects extensive research and contemplation. While it lacks a unifying theme, it prompts readers to ponder why some artists choose self-destruction as a solution to their problems, making it a thought-provoking read."—Dan O'Leary, bookseller
