The Making of the American Essay, the concluding volume of John D’Agata’s landmark trilogy exploring the art of essay writing, examines the development of the form on US soil, from its humble origins in the early republic to its radical modern designs. Opening with Anne Bradstreet’s secular prayers, D’Agata’s examination extends from early expressions like Thoreau’s “Walking” to modernist poetry and love letters before landing on Gay Talese’s now classic “Frank Sinatra Has a Cold.” In conversation with essayist Meghan Daum.

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