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The Autocrat of the Breakfast Table
Paperback
PhilosophyHumorFiction Anthologies
ISBN13: 9781025293486
Publisher: Tradd Street Press
Published: Feb 14 2026
Pages: 408
Weight: 1.25
Height: 0.84 Width: 6.14 Depth: 9.21
Language: English
The Autocrat of the Breakfast Table is a cornerstone of American literature, masterfully blending philosophy, wit, and conversational charm. Written by the esteemed Oliver Wendell Holmes, the work is structured as a series of engaging monologues and dialogues delivered by a narrator at a Boston boarding house table. Through this unique table-talk format, Holmes explores a vast spectrum of human experience, ranging from the complexities of science and religion to the nuances of social etiquette and the beauty of poetry.
The work is renowned for its intellectual depth and its ability to transition seamlessly between profound reflection and lighthearted humor. Readers will find insightful observations on the nature of identity, the evolution of thought, and the cultural landscape of nineteenth-century New England. The Autocrat of the Breakfast Table also features some of Holmes's most famous verse, including the celebrated poem The Chambered Nautilus, which underscores the collection's themes of growth and spiritual aspiration. This collection remains an essential read for those interested in the development of the American essay and the vibrant literary traditions of the Fireside Poets. Its enduring appeal lies in its sharp intellect, its lyrical prose, and its vivid depiction of a refined intellectual era.
This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.
This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.
As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
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