Books by Jay Parini

A powerful and moving novel recounting the life and death of Walter Benjamin from the award-winning author

When Alex Massolini's brother is killed in Vietnam, he drops out of Columbia University and leaves his conservative family behind for Capri to become secretary to Rupert Grant, a famous British novelist and poet who dominates the island like a latter -- day Prospero. Alex soon finds himself ensnared in a web of love affairs, friendships, and rivalries within the eccentric community that inhabits the idyllic beauty of the isolated Italian island.The Apprentice Lover traces a young American's enchantment and disenchantment -- with his American past, his new European mentor, and the various inhabitants on an island famous for its characters.

Examines the importance of the poetic voice and the mysteries of metaphor. This book argues that a poet's originality depends on a deep understanding of the traditions of political poetry, nature poetry, and religious poetry. It is suitable for those interested in a fresh introduction to an art that lies at the centre of Western civilization.

The definitive - and uproariously funny - biography of one of the twentieth century's foremost thinkers and writers.

The story of an American literary giant's extraordinary life from the author of The Last Station

By 1910, Leo Tolstoy had become an almost religious figure, surrounded on his lavish estate by family and followers alike. Too ill to continue beyond the tiny station of Astapovo, he believes he is dying alone. This book centres on the battle for his soul waged by his wife and his leading disciple.