The Friendly Club and Other Portraits

The Friendly Club and Other Portraits, published in 1797 by Francis Parsons, is a collection of essays focusing on notable figures from early American literary history, particularly those associated with the Hartford Wits. The book explores the interactions and contributions of poets like Joel Barlow and John Trumbull, as well as Colonel Humphreys, within the context of their literary endeavors and the cultural backdrop of the American Revolution. Through vivid portrayals, Parsons highlights their friendships, creative struggles, and aspirations, offering insights into the literary landscape of late 18th-century America.