Metaphor theory, observes John Bird, is like Mark Twain: both seem simple upon first introduction. Now, in the most complete study to date of Twain's use of figurative language, a veteran Twain scholar tackles the core of his writing and explores it with theoretical approaches that have rarely been applied to Twain, providing new insights into how he imagined his world--and the singular ways in which he expressed himself. From "The Jumping Frog" to the late dream narratives, Bird considers Twain's metaphoric construction over his complete career and especially sheds new light on his central texts: Roughing It; The Adventures of Tom Sawyer; Adventures of Huckleberry Finn; A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court; Pudd'nhead Wilson; and No. 44,The Mysterious Stranger. He reconsiders "Old Times on the Mississippi" as the most purely metaphorical of Twain's writings, goes on to look at how Twain used metaphor and talked about it in a variety of works and genres, and even argues that Clemens's pseudonym is not so much an alter ego as a metaphorized self. By offering insight into how Twain handled figurative language during the composing process, Bird reveals not only hidden facets of his artistry but also new aspects of works that we think we know well--including some entirely new ideas regarding Huck Finn that draw on the recent discovery of the first half of the manuscript. In addition to dealing with issues currently central to Twain studies, such as race and gender, he also links metaphor to humor and dream theory to further illuminate topics central to his work. More than a study of Twain's language, the book delves into the psychological aspects of metaphor to reveal the writer's attitudes and thoughts, showing how using metaphor as a guide to Twain reveals much about his composition process. Applying the insights of metaphor theorists such as Roman Jakobson and Colin M. Turbayne, Bird offers readers not only new insights into Twain but also an introduction to this interdisciplinary field. In lively prose, Mark Twain and Metaphor provides a vital way to read Twain's entire corpus, allowing readers to better appreciate his style, humor, and obsession with dreams. It opens new ground and makes old ground fresh again, offering ways to see and resee this essential American writer.

"A delightfully informed path through the complexities of composition, publishing history, and the textual discontinuities that characterize so many of Twain's stories."—Journal of American Studies

Mark Twain's 'The Complete 12 Novels of Mark Twain' is a literary masterpiece that exemplifies Twain's witty and satirical style. Known for his sharp social commentary and keen observations of American society, Twain's novels tackle important themes such as racism, classism, and human nature. His use of humor and irony make his works both entertaining and thought-provoking, earning him a lasting place in the American literary canon. The novels in this collection showcase Twain's versatility as a writer, from the adventurous tales of 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' to the insightful satire of 'The Prince and the Pauper'. Readers will be captivated by Twain's vivid storytelling and unforgettable characters, making this collection a must-read for fans of classic literature. Mark Twain's unique perspective on the world around him shines through in each of these timeless works, making 'The Complete 12 Novels of Mark Twain' a valuable addition to any reader's library.

The Complete Works of Mark Twain is a comprehensive collection of the renowned American author's writings, showcasing his wit, humor, and social commentary. Twain's literary style is characterized by his satirical take on society, his use of vernacular language, and his keen observations of human nature. This collection includes classic works such as The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Tom Sawyer, and The Prince and the Pauper, as well as lesser-known pieces that offer insight into Twain's diverse talents. The book sheds light on the complexities of American culture during the 19th century, making it a valuable resource for understanding historical and social contexts. Mark Twain's works continue to be influential, resonating with readers of all ages due to their timeless themes and sharp insights. As a pioneer of American literature, Twain's writings offer a blend of entertainment and profound reflections on human behavior. The Complete Works of Mark Twain is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the depths of American literature and understanding the cultural milieu of the time.

Laura Skandera Trombley, the preeminent Twain scholar at work today, reveals the never-before-read letters and daily journals of Isabel Lyon, Mark Twain’s last personal secretary. For six years, Isabel Lyon was responsible for running the aging Man in White’s chaotic household, nursing him through several illnesses and serving as his adoring audience. But after a dramatic breakup of their relationship, Twain ranted in personal letters that she was “a liar, a forger, a thief, a hypocrite, a drunkard, a sneak, a humbug, a traitor, a conspirator, a filthy-minded and salacious slut pining for seduction.” For decades, biographers omitted Isabel from the official Twain history at his decree. But now, the truth of the split is exposed at last in a story that sheds light on a lionized author’s final decade.

In this study of American cultural production from the colonial era to the present, Russell Reising takes up the loose ends of popular American narratives to craft a new theory of narrative closure. In the range of works examined here - from Phillis Wheatley's poetry to Herman Melville's Israel Potter, from Henry James's "The Jolly Corner" to Disney's Dumbo - Reising finds endings that violate all existing theories of closure, and narratives that expose the often unarticulated issues that inspired these texts. Reising suggests that these "nonendings" entirely refocus the narrative structures they appear to conclude, accentuate the narrative stresses and ideological fissures that the texts seem to suppress, and reveal "shadow narratives" that trail alongside the dominant story line. He argues that unless the reader notices the ruptures in the closing moments of these works, the social and historical moments in which the narrative and the reader are embedded will be missed. This reading not only offers new interpretive possibilities, but also uncovers startling affinities between the poetry of Phillis Wheatley and the fiction of Henry James, between Charles Brockden Brown's Wieland and Melville's Israel Potter, and between Emily Dickinson's poem "I Started Early - Took My Dog " and Disney's animated classic. Pursuing the implications of these failed moments of closure, Reising elaborates on topics ranging from the roots of domestic violence and mass murder in early American religious texts to the pornographic imperative of mid-century nature writing, and from James's "descent" into naturalist and feminist fiction to Dumbo's explosive projection of commercial, racial, and political agendas for postwar U.S. culture. General readers interested in American literature as well as students of literary theory will find Loose Ends enlightening and provocative.

William Faulkner called him "the father of American literature". His novels include The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (1876) and its sequel, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (1884), the latter of which has often been called the "Great American Novel". Mark Twain, was an American writer, humorist, entrepreneur, publisher, and lecturer. He was lauded as the "greatest humorist the United States has produced". A complete bibliography of Twain's works is nearly impossible to compile because of the vast number of pieces he wrote (often in obscure newspapers) and his use of several different pen names. Additionally, a large portion of his speeches and lectures have been lost or were not recorded; thus, the compilation of Twain's works is an ongoing process. Researchers rediscovered published material as recently as 1995 and 2015. A gifted raconteur, distinctive humorist, and irascible moralist, he transcended the apparent limitations of his origins to become a popular public figure and one of America’s best and most beloved writers. The Novels THE GILDED AGE: A TALE OF TODAY THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER THE PRINCE AND THE PAUPER ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN A CONNECTICUT YANKEE IN KING ARTHUR’S COURT THE AMERICAN CLAIMANT TOM SAWYER ABROAD PUDD’NHEAD WILSON TOM SAWYER, DETECTIVE PERSONAL RECOLLECTIONS OF JOAN OF ARC A HORSE’S TALE THE MYSTERIOUS STRANGER The Short Stories MARK TWAIN’S LIBRARY OF HUMOR SKETCHES OF THE SIXTIES The Essays and Satires HOW TO TELL A STORY THE WOUNDED SOLDIER. THE GOLDEN ARM. MENTAL TELEGRAPHY AGAIN THE INVALID’S STORY A SALUTATION SPEECH FROM THE NINETEENTH CENTURY TO THE TWENTIETH THE BATTLE HYMN OF THE REPUBLIC, UPDATED TO THE PERSON SITTING IN DARKNESS PRIVATE HISTORY OF THE “JUMPING FROG” STORY FENIMORE COOPER’S LITERARY OFFENCES RUNNING FOR GOVERNOR STIRRING TIMES IN AUSTRIA CONCERNING THE JEWS COMMENTS ON THE MORO MASSACRE CARL SCHURZ, PILOT TAMING THE BICYCLE TO MY MISSIONARY CRITICS KING LEOPOLD’S SOLILOQUY THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND THE CONGO STATE. IN DEFENSE OF HARRIET SHELLEY ESSAYS ON PAUL BOURGET A LITTLE NOTE TO M. PAUL BOURGET WHAT IS MAN? THE DEATH OF JEAN THE TURNING-POINT OF MY LIFE HOW TO MAKE HISTORY DATES STICK THE MEMORABLE ASSASSINATION A SCRAP OF CURIOUS HISTORY SWITZERLAND, THE CRADLE OF LIBERTY AT THE SHRINE OF ST. WAGNER WILLIAM DEAN HOWELLS ENGLISH AS SHE IS TAUGHT ON GIRLS A SIMPLIFIED ALPHABET AS CONCERNS INTERPRETING THE DEITY CONCERNING TOBACCO THE BEE IS SHAKESPEARE DEAD? THE UNITED STATES OF LYNCHERDOM LETTERS FROM THE EARTH ADVICE TO YOUTH The Travel Writing THE INNOCENTS ABROAD ROUGHING IT A TRAMP ABROAD FOLLOWING THE EQUATOR SOME RAMBLING NOTES OF AN IDLE EXCURSION The Non-Fiction OLD TIMES ON THE MISSISSIPPI LIFE ON THE MISSISSIPPI CHRISTIAN SCIENCE QUEEN VICTORIA’S JUBILEE MY PLATONIC SWEETHEART EDITORIAL WILD OATS The Speeches INTRODUCTION PREFACE THE STORY OF A SPEECH PLYMOUTH ROCK AND THE PILGRIMS COMPLIMENTS AND DEGREES BOOKS, AUTHORS, AND HATS DEDICATION SPEECH GERMAN FOR THE HUNGARIANS A NEW GERMAN WORD UNCONSCIOUS PLAGIARISM THE WEATHER THE BABIES OUR CHILDREN AND GREAT DISCOVERIES EDUCATING THEATRE-GOERS THE EDUCATIONAL THEATRE POETS AS POLICEMEN PUDD’NHEAD WILSON DRAMATIZED DALY THEATRE THE DRESS OF CIVILIZED WOMAN DRESS REFORM AND COPYRIGHT COLLEGE GIRLS GIRLS THE LADIES WOMAN’S PRESS CLUB VOTES FOR WOMEN WOMAN-AN OPINION ADVICE TO GIRLS TAXES AND MORALS TAMMANY AND CROKER MUNICIPAL CORRUPTION MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT CHINA AND THE PHILIPPINES THEORETICAL MORALS LAYMAN’S SERMON UNIVERSITY SETTLEMENT SOCIETY PUBLIC EDUCATION ASSOCIATION EDUCATION AND CITIZENSHIP COURAGE THE DINNER TO MR. CHOATE ON STANLEY AND LIVINGSTONE HENRY M. STANLEY DINNER TO MR. JEROME HENRY IRVING DINNER TO HAMILTON W. MABIE INTRODUCING NYE AND RILEY DINNER TO WHITELAW REID ROGERS AND RAILROADS THE OLD-FASHIONED PRINTER SOCIETY OF AMERICAN AUTHORS READING-ROOM OPENING LITERATURE DISAPPEARANCE OF LITERATURE THE NEW YORK PRESS CLUB DINNER THE ALPHABET AND SIMPLIFIED SPELLING SPELLING AND PICTURES BOOKS AND BURGLARS AUTHORS’ CLUB BOOKSELLERS “ MARK TWAIN’S FIRST APPEARANCE” MORALS AND MEMORY QUEEN VICTORIA JOAN OF ARC ACCIDENT INSURANCE — ETC. OSTEOPATHY WATER-SUPPLY MISTAKEN IDENTITY CATS AND CANDY OBITUARY POETRY CIGARS AND TOBACCO BILLIARDS THE UNION RIGHT OR WRONG AN IDEAL FRENCH ADDRESS STATISTICS GALVESTON ORPHAN BAZAAR SAN FRANCISCO EARTHQUAKE CHARITY AND ACTORS RUSSIAN REPUBLIC RUSSIAN SUFFERERS WATTERSON AND TWAIN AS REBELS ROBERT FULTON FUND FULTON DAY, JAMESTOWN LOTOS CLUB DINNER IN HONOR OF MARK TWAIN COPYRIGHT IN AID OF THE BLIND DR. MARK TWAIN, FARMEOPATH MISSOURI UNIVERSITY SPEECH BUSINESS CARNEGIE THE BENEFACTOR ON POETRY, VERACITY, AND SUICIDE WELCOME HOME AN UNDELIVERED SPEECH SIXTY-SEVENTH BIRTHDAY TO THE WHITEFRIARS THE ASCOT GOLD CUP THE SAVAGE CLUB DINNER GENERAL MILES AND THE DOG WHEN IN DOUBT, TELL THE TRUTH THE DAY WE CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY AMERICANS AND THE ENGLISH ABOUT LONDON PRINCETON THE ST. LOUIS HARBOR-BOAT “MARK TWAIN” SEVENTIETH BIRTHDAY

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1988. This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived

As forms of drawing go, scribbling is the most basic: it is seen as playing a formative role in the drawings of both children and primates. Doodling, while still being a widespread phenomenon, is largely an adult preoccupation—a nomadic form of drawing typically produced during meetings and phone calls. But even though those who engage in it are not necessarily trained artists, automatic drawing is a more dramatic event, and the results of an absentminded or trancelike state are sometimes astonishing. Because of their amateur and spontaneous character, all three forms of drawing have been adopted by modern artists seeking to escape from the constraints of their professional skills. In Line Let Loose, David Maclagan shows that each of these marginal forms of drawing has its own history in spiritualism, surrealism, abstract expressionism, and psychedelic art. Referring to Klee, Pollock, Miro, Twombly, and LeWitt, as well as many lesser-known or anonymous artists, he traces the links between them and a pervasive notion of the spontaneous and ‘unconscious’ creation of forms in art. He suggests that the original novelty of these unconventional drawing processes has begun to wear off, and he explores their new situation in our modern digital culture.

Dr. Alan Gribben, a foremost Twain scholar, made waves in 1980 with the publication of Mark Twain's Library, a study that exposed for the first time the breadth of Twain's reading and influences. Prior to Gribben's work, much of Twain's reading history was assumed lost, but through dogged searching Gribben was able to source much of Twain's library. Mark Twain's Literary Resources is a much-expanded examination of Twain's library and readings. Volume I included Gribben's reflections on the work involved in cataloging Twain's reading and analysis of Twain's influences and opinions. This volume, long awaited, is an in-depth and comprehensive accounting of Twain's literary history. Each work read or owned by Twain is listed, along with information pertaining to editions, locations, and more. Gribben also includes scholarly annotations that explain the significance of many works, making this volume of Mark Twain's Literary Resources one of the most important additions to our understanding of America's greatest author.