In this collection of essays, published in 1901, Brander offers his cogent analysis and critique of a wide range of literary topics.

Included among the essays are, “The Study of Fiction,” “Romance Against Romanticism,” and “Literature as a Profession.” He also offers his insights into the works of such writers as Alphonse Daudet, Sir Walter Scott, William Makepeace Thackeray, and Mark Twain.