Writings on Writing

Though Kipling always denied any critical intent, his letters, speeches and stories are full of comments on writing and writers. This collection, including many previously unpublished private letters and papers, reveal a mind intensely concerned with questions of literary value. Kipling became an important spokesperson for segments of the reading public central to Britain's imperial expansion. He profoundly influenced English literary language and our perception of English national character. This book offers new access to and understanding of the private and public history of a still fiercely controversial writer.