Gifts of Genius: A Miscellany of Prose and Poetry by American Authors

Gifts of Genius: A Miscellany of Prose and Poetry by American Authors, published in 1859 and compiled by Samuel Osgood, is an anthology featuring original writings from notable American authors. The collection showcases a variety of literary voices and themes, including love, nature, and societal dynamics, reflecting the richness of American literature in the mid-19th century. The preface by W.C. Bryant highlights the motivation behind the anthology, which was compiled for Miss Davenport after her tragic loss of sight. The first story, 'Out at Elbows' by John Esten Cooke, introduces themes of personal reflection and social status.