The Best Classic American Authors Everyone Should Read

Reading great literature from classic authors is not only a way to escape reality but a way of understanding the world from different perspectives. American authors have influenced the literary world for centuries with their profound insights and unique literary styles. In this post, we will explore some of the best classic American authors whose works have stood the test of time.

1. Ernest Hemingway

Ernest Hemingway’s works such as “The Old Man and the Sea,” “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” and “The Sun Also Rises,” have captivated readers for decades with his minimalist writing style. Hemingway captured the essence of the human condition and the brutality of war in his works. His unique writing style has influenced generations of writers.

2. Mark Twain

Mark Twain, the author of “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” is perhaps one of the most iconic American authors. His portrayals of the Mississippi river and life in small towns have not only provided a glimpse of life in 19th-century America but have helped shape American literature. Twain’s works explored the themes of racism, morality, and the human experience.

3. Edgar Allan Poe

Edgar Allan Poe remains one of the most iconic American authors, known for his gothic tales and supernatural stories such as “The Raven” and “The Fall of the House of Usher.” Poe’s works were often macabre and ideal for those who enjoy a good horror story. His writing style and themes have influenced modern-day horror and mystery writers.

4. F. Scott Fitzgerald

The author of “The Great Gatsby,” F. Scott Fitzgerald is renowned for exploring the lives of the rich and elite in the 1920s. His works not only capture the elements of the Jazz Age but also the disillusionment and decay that came with it. Fitzgerald’s writing style is often described as nostalgic and romantic, which has appealed to generations of readers.

5. William Faulkner

William Faulkner, the author of “The Sound and the Fury” and “As I Lay Dying,” is among the most influential American writers of the 20th century. Faulkner’s works often dealt with racism, social inequality, and the human condition. His use of multi-perspectives and stream of consciousness has influenced modern-day experimental literature.

Conclusion

This list only scratches the surface of the best classic American authors. American literature has a rich history of authors who have influenced generations with their powerful storytelling and profound insights. Anyone looking to delve into classic literature should start with these authors and their timeless works.