"De Profundis" is a lengthy letter written by a man during his imprisonment for gross indecency, reflecting on his past life and experiences. The letter is addressed to his former lover, and through it, he expresses his feelings of regret, despair, and hope. The man discusses his spiritual journey during incarceration, his newfound understanding of suffering, and his changing views on art and morality. The work is a profound exploration of love, forgiveness, redemption, and the human spirit's resilience.

This book provides a comprehensive history and analysis of the intellectual and cultural role of writers and critics in English society from the early 19th century to the late 20th century. It explores the evolution of the "man of letters" - intellectuals who were not just writers or scholars but also influential cultural critics and commentators. The narrative delves into how these figures shaped public opinion and literary taste through their essays, reviews, and editorial work, and how their influence waned with the rise of new media and changing social dynamics. The work is both a tribute to the contributions of these individuals and a critical examination of their legacy in the face of modern challenges to traditional forms of cultural authority.

"Letters from Egypt" is a compilation of correspondences written during a formative journey, offering a glimpse into the experiences and observations of a young woman who would later become renowned for her contributions to nursing and public health. The letters, penned with keen insight and a reflective tone, document her travels through Egypt in the mid-19th century, capturing the cultural, historical, and social nuances of the time. Through her vivid descriptions and personal reflections, the author provides a rich, descriptive account of Egyptian life, landscapes, and her own intellectual and spiritual growth, all of which predate her legendary work during the Crimean War and her subsequent pioneering efforts in health care reform.

"Studies in Classic American Literature" is a collection of essays that offer a critical examination of the major works of early American literature. The author delves into the cultural and psychological underpinnings of the United States, exploring the themes, morality, and national identity that are woven into the fabric of American literary tradition. Through incisive and often controversial critiques of works by writers such as Nathaniel Hawthorne, Edgar Allan Poe, and Walt Whitman, the book presents a unique perspective on the contradictions and complexities of the American spirit, challenging readers to reconsider the foundational myths and ethos of the nation as depicted through its literary heritage.