Henry S. King was a notable British publisher and bookseller in the 19th century, recognized for his contributions to the literary landscape of his time. He founded Henry S. King & Co., which became known for its diverse catalog of publications that included works across various genres, from fiction to scholarly texts. His publishing house played a significant role in promoting both established authors and emerging voices, helping to shape the reading habits of Victorian society. One of King's notable contributions was the 'A Classified Catalogue of Henry S. King & Co.'s Publications' released in November 1873, which served as a comprehensive guide to the titles offered by his firm. This catalogue not only highlighted the breadth of his publishing efforts but also reflected the literary tastes and cultural currents of the era. King's work as a publisher is significant for its influence on the dissemination of literature during a time of rapid change in publishing practices and consumer culture, marking him as a key figure in the evolution of the book industry in Victorian England.
“Henry Thoreau said that we don’t own things; things own us. Every new object”
“What really bugs Henry about Barry, he supposes, is Barry’s complacency. His inner assurance that there is no need to change his self-destructive behavior, let alone search for its roots.””
“It is the laugh of a man in the grip of fond recall- the sight of a sunset, the firm feel of a woman’s breast through a thin silk shirt (not that Barry has, in Henry’s estimation, ever felt such a thing), or the packed warmth of beach sand.””