THIS LONG PURSUIT- PB

Embark on a captivating journey into the heart of biographical discovery with Richard Holmes' "This Long Pursuit: Reflections of a Romantic Biographer." Renowned for his masterful biographies of literary giants like Coleridge and Shelley, Holmes unveils the secrets behind his immersive and deeply personal approach to bringing historical figures to life. This paperback edition, published by William Collins in 2017, offers readers a unique glimpse into the mind and methods of one of the greatest biographers of our time. More than just a how-to guide, "This Long Pursuit" is a compelling narrative that interweaves Holmes' own intellectual and physical journeys with the remarkable lives of five extraordinary women: Margaret Cavendish, the eccentric 17th-century Duchess of Newcastle; Zlide (Isabelle de Charrire), the independent-minded Dutch-Swiss writer and composer; Madame de Stal, the brilliant and influential French salonnire and novelist; Mary Wollstonecraft, the pioneering feminist and author of "A Vindication of the Rights of Woman"; and Mary Somerville, the celebrated Scottish science writer and polymath. Holmes elegantly articulates the two guiding principles that underpin his biographical work: a commitment to experiencing the landscapes and environments that shaped his subjects' lives, and the meticulous practice of maintaining a two-sided notebook one page dedicated to factual details, the other to personal reflections and insights. "This Long Pursuit" invites you to accompany Holmes on his literary pilgrimages, tracing the footsteps of these remarkable women across Europe and beyond. Discover how he meticulously gathers fragments of their lives from archives, libraries, and the very places they inhabited. Beyond the geographical explorations, the book delves into the psychological and emotional dimensions of biographical research. Holmes candidly shares his challenges, frustrations, and moments of profound connection with his subjects, offering a deeply human perspective on the art of biography. He demonstrates how the biographer's own experiences and perspectives inevitably shape the narrative, transforming historical figures from distant figures into vibrant, relatable individuals. Critical acclaim for Richard Holmes' work often highlights his ability to seamlessly blend scholarly rigor with engaging storytelling. "This Long Pursuit" exemplifies this talent, offering a reading experience that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving. Whether you are a seasoned biographer, an aspiring writer, a history enthusiast, or simply a lover of compelling narratives, this book offers invaluable insights into the craft of biography and a profound appreciation for the lives of these remarkable women who dared to defy the conventions of their time. Explore the intricacies of historical research, the power of place, and the enduring relevance of these five extraordinary women, all within the pages of "This Long Pursuit." Add this captivating work of history and literary criticism to your collection today. This 360-page volume, weighing 280g, is a perfect addition to any library, making it both a treasured possession and an intellectually enriching experience. The ISBN-13 is 9780008168728 and the ISBN-10 is 0008168725.