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The Brief Transit and Violent Eclipse of Harry Crosby: A Captivating Tale of Love, Loss, and Literary Legacy

Andy Hayes

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Harry Crosby, A Complex And Enigmatic Figure In American Literature Black Sun: The Brief Transit And Violent Eclipse Of Harry Crosby (New York Review Classics)

In the annals of American literature, Harry Crosby stands as an enigmatic and captivating figure, a brilliant poet and publisher whose life was cut tragically short at the age of 31. His collection, "The Brief Transit and Violent Eclipse of Harry Crosby," published as part of the New York Review Classics series, offers a tantalizing glimpse into his tumultuous existence and enduring impact on the literary landscape.

Black Sun: The Brief Transit and Violent Eclipse of Harry Crosby (New York Review Classics)

Black Sun: The Brief Transit and Violent Eclipse of Harry Crosby (New York Review Books Classics)

by Geoffrey Wolff

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8327 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	416 pages

A Literary Prodigy and Patron of the Arts

Born in Boston in 1898, Harry Crosby was a precocious child with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. By the age of 15, he had published his first collection of poems, "Quicksand." After graduating from Harvard University, he moved to Paris in 1921, where he became deeply involved in the bohemian art scene.

Crosby founded two influential publishing houses: The Black Sun Press and Crosby Continental Editions. Through these ventures, he promoted the works of avant-garde writers such as Ezra Pound, Hart Crane, and Kay Boyle. His own poetic voice blended elements of Romanticism, Symbolism, and Surrealism, creating a distinctive and unforgettable style.

A Tumultuous Marriage and the Shadow of Suicide

In 1925, Crosby married the enigmatic and beautiful Caresse Crosby. Their relationship was both passionate and volatile, marked by intense love, infidelity, and a shared fascination with death. The couple made several suicide pacts and engaged in dangerous rituals, including Russian roulette.

In 1929, Harry Crosby's literary career reached its zenith with the publication of his masterpiece, "Red Skeletons." This enigmatic and haunting collection explored themes of love, loss, and the fragility of life. However, despite his literary success, Crosby's personal life was spiraling downward.

A Fatal Night in New York City

On December 10, 1929, Harry Crosby checked into a hotel room on Fifth Avenue in New York City. He called Caresse, telling her that he had decided to take his own life. Hours later, his lifeless body was discovered, surrounded by copies of "Red Skeletons" and a photograph of Caresse.

Crosby's suicide sent shockwaves through the literary world. He became a symbol of the lost generation, a talented artist who had fallen victim to his own demons. His death has been the subject of intense speculation and fascination, with some scholars suggesting that it was not a suicide at all, but a murder.

A Legacy of Controversy and Enduring Impact

Harry Crosby's life and death have been the subject of numerous biographies, documentaries, and works of fiction. His enigmatic persona and tragic fate have captured the imagination of generations of readers.

Despite his brief existence, Crosby left an indelible mark on American literature. His poetry, with its raw emotion and haunting imagery, continues to resonate with readers today. His role as a publisher and patron of the arts helped to shape the literary landscape of the 20th century.

"The Brief Transit and Violent Eclipse of Harry Crosby"

The New York Review Classics edition of "The Brief Transit and Violent Eclipse of Harry Crosby" offers a comprehensive collection of Crosby's poetry, prose, and letters. This meticulously edited volume features insightful essays by esteemed critics and scholars, providing a rich context for understanding Crosby's work and legacy.

Whether you are a seasoned admirer of Harry Crosby or a newcomer to his enigmatic world, this collection is an essential addition to any library. It is a testament to the enduring power of literature and the allure of a life lived on the edge.

So delve into the pages of "The Brief Transit and Violent Eclipse of Harry Crosby" and discover the enigmatic poet, publisher, and lover whose life and death continue to captivate generations.

Black Sun: The Brief Transit and Violent Eclipse of Harry Crosby (New York Review Books Classics)

by Geoffrey Wolff

4.6 out of 5