Back Thomas Mallon: Shut off cable news and read Eudora Welty instead


Watch: Thomas Mallon on Library of America (1:39)

In a time of steadily deepening political polarization, can reading classic literature offer some perspective?

Above, novelist and critic Thomas Mallon, who edited the Library of America edition of Mary McCarthy’s fiction, shares his thoughts on the “multiplicity” of great American writing—and offers a prescription for getting through our present moment.

Library of America
CURATOR

A champion of America’s great writers and timeless works, Library of America guides readers in finding and exploring the exceptional writing that reflects the nation’s history and culture.

Learn More
PUBLISHER

From poetry, novels, and memoirs to journalism, crime writing, and science fiction, the more than 300 volumes published by Library of America are widely recognized as America’s literary canon.

Browse our books Subscribe
NON-PROFIT

With contributions from donors, Library of America preserves and celebrates a vital part of our cultural heritage for generations to come.

Support our mission