William Dean Howells 
A Belated Guest (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance) 

A Belated Guest, a short story featured in the collection Literary Friends and Acquaintance by William Dean Howells, delves into the intricacies of human relationships and social norms within the literary world of the late 19th century. Howells, known for his realistic portrayals of middle-class American life, employs a straightforward narrative style to illuminate the complexities of personal and professional interactions among writers and intellectuals of his time. The story provides a fascinating glimpse into the literary culture of the period, shedding light on the challenges and tensions that often accompanied artistic pursuits. Howells’ keen observational skills and subtle wit shine through in this engaging narrative. A Belated Guest offers readers a thought-provoking exploration of friendship, ambition, and the sometimes uneasy balance between personal desires and societal expectations. Fans of realist fiction and historical literature will appreciate Howells’ insightful commentary on human nature and the dynamics of artistic communities.