Gossip in a Library

Edmund Gosse, born on September 21, 1849, in London, was an English poet, author, and critic. Son of the naturalist Philip Henry Gosse, Edmund grew up in a strict fundamentalist home, an upbringing that he later chronicled in his autobiographical work 'Father and Son' (1907). As a literary figure, Gosse's influence was considerable during the turn of the 20th century. His career spanned across several institutions, including the British Museum and later as a lecturer of English literature at Trinity College, Cambridge. Gosse's 'Gossip in a Library' (1891), reflects his deep engagement with literature. The work is a collection of essays on various books found in his personal library, offering critical and biographical observations that illuminate the victorian perspective on literature. His scholarly approach is marked by a light, conversational tone, blending erudition with a touch of personal reflection that invites readers to partake in the literary dialogue. Gosse's contributions extend beyond his literary criticisms. As an author, he was known for his poetry and his literary histories, most notably 'History of Eighteenth-Century Literature' (1889) which remains a seminal work in the field to this day. Gosse's literary style blends insight with entertainment, providing an accessible approach to literary criticism. His works are still of interest to scholars studying the period's literature and its reception. Gosse passed away on May 16, 1928, leaving behind a substantial body of work that continues to be studied and enjoyed for its historical value and its interpretive finesse.