We can scarce find it in our hearts to make any distinctions in so happy a partnership; but while we see something more than promise in both writers, we have a feeling that Mr. Piatt shows greater originality in the choice of subjects, and Mr. Howells more instinctive felicity of phrase in the treatment of them. Both of them seem to us to have escaped remarkably from the prevailing conventionalisms of verse, and to write in metre because they have a genuine call thereto. We are pleased with a thorough Western flavor in some of the poems, especially in such pieces as "The Pioneer Chimney" and "The Movers." We welcome cordially a volume in which we recognize a fresh and authentic power, and expect confidently of the writers a yet higher achievement ere long. The poems give more than glimpses of a faculty not so common that the world can afford to do without it.
Vanity Fair, Frank J. Thompson, 113 Nassau Street, New York. (Weekly.)
This is the first really clever comic and satirical journal we have had in America,—and really clever it is. It is both sharp and good-tempered, and not afraid to say that its soul is its own,—which shows that it has a soul. Our readers will be glad to know where they can find native fun that has something better in it than mere patois.
Twenty Years Ago and Now. By T. S. ARTHUR. Philadelphia: G. G. Evans.
In attempting a novel, Mr. Arthur has gone beyond his powers. This story is not new, and is not interesting; and its only merits are the quiet, unpretending style and kindly spirit shown in the author's little tales of mercantile life, many of which are very good.
RECENT AMERICAN PUBLICATIONS
RECEIVED BY THE EDITORS OF THE ATLANTIC MONTHLY.
The Hierophant; or, Gleanings from the Past. Being an Exposition of
Biblical Astronomy, and the Symbolism and Mysteries on which were
founded all Ancient Religions and Secret Societies. Also, an
Explanation of the Dark Sayings and Allegories which abound in the
Pagan, Jewish, and Christian Bibles. Also, the Real Sense of the
Doctrines and Observances of the Modern Christian Churches. By G. C.
Stewart, Newark, N. J. New York. Ross & Tousey. 18mo. pp. 234. 75 cts.
A Trip to Cuba. By Mrs. Julia Ward Howe. Boston. Ticknor & Fields. 16mo. pp. iv., 25l. 75 cts.
Humanics. By T. Wharton Collins, Esq., Professor of "Political
Philosophy," University of Louisiana, Ex-Presiding Judge City Court of
New Orleans, etc. New York. Appleton & Co. 8vo. pp. 358. $1.75.