An American Politician (eBook)

Francis Marion Crawford (1854–1909), better known as F. Marion Crawford, was a prolific American writer celebrated for his novels set in diverse locales. Born to American sculptor Thomas Crawford and Louisa Cutler Ward, he flourished in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Crawford's lineage was remarkable; his aunt was the novelist Julia Ward Howe, famed for penning 'The Battle Hymn of the Republic'. Educated in Europe, he assimilated a continental sophistication into his literary work, which set him apart from his contemporaries. Crawford's 'An American Politician' delves into the intricacies of political and social life, reflecting his keen observation and narrative flair. He cultivated a literary style often characterized by a vivid evocation of place and setting, with a particular penchant for marrying American sensibilities with European settings and history. Crawford's oeuvre includes historical romances, horror stories, and several series, such as the Saracinesca family saga, which cemented his reputation as an adept storyteller. His blend of romance and realism attracted a wide audience, securing his position as a notable figure in the American literary scene of his time. Among his most celebrated works, the supernatural stories, including the classic 'The Upper Berth', continue to be read for their eerie charm and are often cited in discussions of preeminent ghost story fiction.