Reading Nathaniel Hawthorne's Notebooks is a very different experience than reading those of Henry James, Steinbeck, Thomas Mann (Diaries), Robert Musil or even those published by Reynolds Price. Their self-mannered awareness that the future will prize their "private" thoughts and ideas is completely absent from Hawthorne. These were truly private workbooks. Hawthorne writes in full voice as someone for whom communication is vital and difficult. Open this work anywhere and read what sounds like the inner voice of someone practiced at concealing his thoughts publicly. Expansive, suggestive, and illuminating for all those who would like to know more of the deep thought and artfulness that went into his major works.
Some of his working ideas for stories sound absolutely modern. One story idea develops the possibility of having two men talking and discussing their difficulties while waiting and waiting for someone who never comes. They don't know what to do, so they continue to wait and discussing the one who never comes. Sound familar? A little like "Waiting for Godot"? If you love great literature and if you love Hawthorne, then run to a library / order it from Amazon.com / but get a copy of this magnificent book and stay with it. It will stay with you.
Nathaniel Hawthorne, Centenary Ed. Works Nathaniel Hawthorne: Vol. VIII, The American Notebooks.
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