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Focusing on the pioneering feminist themes, the work of Kate Chopin, particularly her renowned novel The Awakening, explores complex female identities and societal constraints. Alongside this significant work, she authored At Fault and a variety of compelling short stories, showcasing her literary talent and progressive views long before the feminist movement gained momentum. Chopin's contributions continue to resonate in discussions of gender and individuality.

Horace McCoy's life spanned from serving in WWI to becoming a celebrated author and screenwriter. His notable works, including "They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" and "Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye," explore themes of desperation, ambition, and corruption in society. The book offers a detailed chronology of McCoy's life, synopses of his six novels, and insights into 494 characters, complemented by critical commentary from scholars. It also features a bibliography highlighting the scholarship surrounding McCoy's legacy, emphasizing his greater recognition in Europe.

Renowned for his sonnets, Edwin Arlington Robinson captivates readers with his unique blend of obscurity, ambiguity, and complex syntax. Celebrated as one of America's foremost poets during his time, he often eclipsed contemporaries like T.S. Eliot and Robert Frost. His enduring works continue to resonate, introducing his profound poetic voice to new generations and ensuring his legacy in American literature.

Focusing on the life and works of James Mallahan Cain, this reference guide details his journey from reporter to influential author of hard-boiled fiction. It includes a comprehensive chronology and plot synopses of his novels, alongside critical commentaries and character identifications for over 900 figures. This resource serves as both an introduction to Cain's fiction and a valuable tool for scholars and fans, offering the most extensive exploration of this significant American writer's contributions to literature and film.

Raymond Chandler's influence on hard-boiled mystery-detective fiction is explored through a comprehensive reference work featuring hundreds of entries. It covers his novels, short stories, characters, and personal connections, providing plot synopses and character identifications. Brief critical commentaries enhance understanding, while longer entries include references for further reading, making it an invaluable resource for fans and scholars of Chandler's work.

Graham Greene's work delves into complex religious, social, and political themes, marking him as a significant and controversial figure in 20th-century literature. His novels gained immense popularity and have inspired numerous adaptations, with at least 18 novels and 22 short stories transformed into films and television shows, highlighting his lasting impact on both literature and the screen.

The life and works of Ambrose Bierce, a controversial figure born in 1842, are explored in this comprehensive reference. A Union soldier during the Civil War, he experienced firsthand the horrors of battle, which influenced his writing. After the war, Bierce became a provocative journalist in San Francisco, renowned for his sharp and daring columns. He is also celebrated for his war stories, supernatural tales, and poetry, with his most famous work being The Devil's Dictionary, originally titled The Cynic's Dictionary.

Known for his creation of private detective Lew Archer, Ross Macdonald stands out as a significant figure in 20th-century American mystery literature. His works, including The Drowning Pool and The Underground Man, delve into themes of dysfunctional families and often take place in academic environments. This reference serves as a comprehensive guide to his life and literary contributions, highlighting his complex storytelling style and his influence from contemporaries like Dashiell Hammett and Raymond Chandler.

Exploring the life and contributions of Dashiell Hammett, this comprehensive guide details his prolific writing career from his first short story in 1922 to his final works in 1934. It highlights his 60 short stories and five iconic novels, including The Maltese Falcon and The Thin Man. Despite facing personal struggles with alcoholism and illness, Hammett's lasting impact on literature, film, and television is emphasized, showcasing his enduring legacy in the crime genre.