De Quincey to Wordsworth

De Quincey to Wordsworth: A Biography of a Relationship delves into the dynamic and complex connection between Thomas De Quincey and William Wordsworth, chronicled through decades of revealing correspondence. This biography goes beyond the letters themselves, placing them within the broader context of their lives and interactions. It explores De Quincey's evolution from a nature-loving Oxford dropout to a celebrated master of English prose, touching upon his struggles with opium addiction, financial instability, and literary aspirations. Wordsworth emerges not just as a correspondent but as a significant influence on De Quincey's life and work, shaping his intellectual and personal journey.

Through meticulous chronological organization and editorial commentary, this book presents a rich narrative of two remarkable figures and their intertwining lives. By examining these letters alongside biographical fragments, gossip, and hearsay, readers gain a vivid glimpse into their human complexities. Moments of humor, pathos, and tragedy reveal the profound impact they had on one another, offering a compelling study of their relationship and its influence on their art. This work serves as both a testament to their creativity and an intimate portrayal of their shared and individual struggles.

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 1963.