Writers' Houses

Not having studied anything about the lives of famous authors, I found "Writers' Houses" intriguing nevertheless. Francesca Premoli-Droulers presents a nice "pictorial tour" of the homes and properties, and does a great job of describing the emotional connection between the artists' lives and the places where they created their literary works. The first-rate photography, by Erica Lennard, is a superb complement to the text.Each of the 21 homes (including that of Marguerite Duras, who wrote the prologue) is presented over eight to ten pages--with an equal number of color photos--of reverent writing and stories about what brought the author to that particular home, the inspiration created by the residence and its grounds, and the goings-on of the day. It's excellent reading.Photographer Lennard more often than not does a good job of capturing the natural lighting to give depth and "feel" to the interior spaces. My favorite shots are the ones of doorways, stairways and porches. There are also close-ups of desks, books, and various nicknacks, which add intimacy and personality to the pictures, although perspective is occasionally lost from being a little too close up. Also, it would have been perfect to see some aerial photos of the extent of the grounds and the character of their settings, especially for the Dossi, Faulkner, Hemingway, Hesse and Moravia homes. Still, this is a first-rate addition to anyone's library.

Duras introduces this photo essay with her trademark verse. Her style of stating her perceptions and then restating thoughts in her legendary flip-flop manner, cement their importance and leave a lasting impression. The photos are magnificent. They seem to represent the essence of the writers: from personal belongings scattered about, to the sparce quarters envisioned surrounding a creator at work. I had visited Ernest Hemmingway's home in Cuba and immediately recognized his Key West home as his. A fine addition to anyone's library, this book appeals to the artist and romantic in all of us.