“She had the American national quality—she had ‘faculty’ in a supreme degree.” The “she” is the titular character in Henry James’ short story “Mrs. Temperly” (included in the Library of America’s Complete Stories 1884-1891). Like every work by James, the story is calculated to describe with exquisite precision how life works. Our protagonist, Raymond, is in love with Mrs. Temperly’s daughter, Dora, and wants to marry her. Without ever saying to either Raymond or Dora that the marriage should … [Read more...] about The American National Quality?
Measuring out my life with coffee spoons ...and books
