"The Autocrat of the Breakfast Table" is a collection of essays presented as a series of table talks among the residents of a New England boarding house. Through the voice of the charming and insightful Autocrat, the author explores a wide range of topics, from love and philosophy to society and human nature. The essays are interspersed with poems and witty observations, providing a rich tapestry of thought and language. The work, characterized by its conversational style and intellectual depth, captures the essence of American life and thought in the mid-19th century.

"The Late George Apley" is a satirical novel that presents a critical view of the upper class society in Boston during the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds through a series of letters, diary entries, and other documents, chronicling the life of George Apley, a wealthy Bostonian. The book explores Apley's struggles to uphold the traditions and social norms of his class, despite the rapidly changing world around him. The story provides a nuanced portrayal of the protagonist's life, highlighting the constraints and pressures of conforming to societal expectations.