The Letters of Rudyard Kipling Volume 2 - 1890-99 : Book Review

"The Letters of Rudyard Kipling, Volume 2: 1890-99" is a captivating book that provides readers with an intriguing glimpse into the life of the esteemed author. It consists of a compilation of letters from the 1890s, offering valuable insights into the experiences, thoughts, and relationships that influenced Kipling's writing. For those who are already familiar with Kipling's works, this book offers a deeper understanding of the man behind the stories.

This particular volume covers a significant period in Kipling's life, beginning with his early achievements such as the publication of "The Jungle Book" and "The Man Who Would Be King." Through these letters, readers can truly appreciate Kipling's wit, intelligence, and unwavering dedication to his craft. His correspondences with friends, family, and fellow writers paint a candid picture of his personal life, revealing his deep love for his family and his experiences as a father.

Another valuable aspect of "The Letters of Rudyard Kipling, Volume 2" is the insight it provides into Kipling's worldview and his engagement with topical issues of his time. From his thoughts on British imperialism and politics to his commentary on literature and the arts, readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the ideas that shaped Kipling's writing.

The letters also shed light on Kipling's interactions with prominent figures of the late 19th century literary world, offering a fascinating glimpse into the cultural landscape of that era. Despite his success, Kipling maintains a humble and sincere tone in his correspondences, which further endears him to readers.

Additionally, the book explores Kipling's travels, including his experiences in America and South Africa, providing a rich backdrop for understanding his works on a deeper level.

What are readers saying?

The second volume of "The Letters of Rudyard Kipling" spans from 1890 to 1899 and has received a variety of reviews. Some readers found the correspondence to be a captivating glimpse into Kipling's life and writing career, while others found it lacking in engagement and relevance.

Many reviewers appreciated the insight provided into Kipling's personal life and the literary world of the late 19th century. They found the letters to be a valuable source of information, shedding light on Kipling's friendships, travels, and literary influences. Readers were particularly intrigued by his connections with fellow writers, such as Henry James and H.G. Wells, and enjoyed the sense of uncovering secrets from the past.

However, there were several reviewers who felt that the letters were tedious and lacked entertainment value. They believed that the correspondences focused too much on mundane details and lacked the exciting and insightful content they had anticipated. These readers wished for a more coherent narrative or a stronger editing process to make the letters more engaging for a modern audience.

Some readers commented on Kipling's unique writing style showcased in his letters. They appreciated the eloquence and wit present in his correspondence, which they felt mirrored his larger body of work. This aspect made the letters a worthwhile read for fans of Kipling's writing, as they witnessed his talent on display even in informal communication.

However, a few reviewers found the volume unnecessarily long and repetitive. They suggested that a more selective approach in choosing which letters to include would have benefited the book, as some content felt redundant or uninteresting. These readers believed that a more focused and condensed presentation would have strengthened the overall impact.

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