Book Review Summary: The Points of My Compass

Introduction

"The Points of My Compass" is a collection of essays by E.B. White, the renowned American essayist, author, humorist, poet, and literary stylist. Published in 1962 by Harper & Row, this volume showcases White's writing during a period when he styled himself as a foreign correspondent without leaving his New York apartment. The essays cover a wide range of topics, from the characteristics of New York pigeons to the nature of the newly-formed United Nations to the fate of the railroads in the state of Maine. In this article, we will delve into the book's content, analyze readers' views, and explore the reasons why this book is highly recommended.

About E.B. White

E.B. White, whose full name is Elwyn Brooks White, was a leading American essayist, author, and literary stylist. He graduated from Cornell University in 1921 and joined the staff of <i>The New Yorker</i> magazine five or six years later. White authored over seventeen books of prose and poetry and was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 1973. He is best known for his beloved children's classics such as "Charlotte's Web," "Stuart Little," and "The Trumpet of the Swan." White was known for his ability to create engaging and thought-provoking essays that explored both the beauty and complexities of the world around him.

Analysis of Views

A New Perspective on E.B. White: Many readers were surprised to discover a different side of E.B. White through this collection of essays. They found that White's writing transcended his famous children's stories and revealed his talent as a New Yorker columnist and thoughtful essayist.
Engaging Topics: The essays in "The Points of My Compass" cover a wide range of topics, from politics to nature to personal reflections. Readers appreciated the variety of subjects and found them engaging and thought-provoking.
Observational Skills: E.B. White's ability to observe the world around him was widely praised by readers. They appreciated his keen eye for detail and his ability to capture the essence of various subjects in a concise and insightful manner.
Timeless Relevance: Despite being written in the 1950s, many readers found that E.B. White's essays remained relevant and applicable to contemporary issues. They appreciated the timeless nature of his observations and the relevance of his insights even in today's world.
Humor and Wit: E.B. White's writing is known for its humor and wit, and readers found these qualities present in "The Points of My Compass." They enjoyed the lighthearted tone of the essays and appreciated White's ability to inject humor into even the most serious subjects.

Reasons for Recommendation

Thought-Provoking Content: Readers recommended "The Points of My Compass" for its thought-provoking content. They found that White's essays stimulated their thinking and encouraged them to reflect on various aspects of life and society.
Engaging Writing Style: E.B. White's writing style was widely praised by readers for its clarity, elegance, and wit. They appreciated his ability to convey complex ideas in a simple and engaging manner, making the essays accessible and enjoyable to read.
Timeless Relevance: The timeless relevance of E.B. White's essays was a significant reason for recommending this book. Readers appreciated how his observations on politics, society, and human nature remained relevant even decades after they were written, providing valuable insights for contemporary readers.

Conclusion

"The Points of My Compass" by E.B. White is a collection of essays that showcases the writer's talent as a foreign correspondent, essayist, and observer of life. Through a variety of topics ranging from politics to nature to personal reflections, White captures the essence of the world around him with his keen eye for detail and his ability to inject humor into serious subjects. The book has received widespread praise from readers for its thought-provoking content, engaging writing style, and timeless relevance. Whether you are a fan of E.B. White's children's stories or looking for a thought-provoking read, "The Points of My Compass" is highly recommended for those seeking a glimpse into the mind of one of America's most beloved writers.