Concerning Lafcadio Hearn; With a Bibliography by Laura Stedman

"Concerning Lafcadio Hearn" by George M. Gould is a biographical work written in the early 20th century. The book examines the life of Lafcadio Hearn, an intriguing figure known for his literary contributions and complex personality, highlighting both the challenges he faced and the artistic merit of his writing. The overall focus appears to be on understanding Hearn's identity and evaluating his place within the literary canon. The opening of the text introduces the subject of Lafcadio Hearn, offering a glimpse into his fragmented childhood, family background, and formative years that were marked by uncertainty and instability. The author provides conflicting accounts of Hearn's parentage and upbringing, revealing Hearn's own confusion about his origins, which influenced his character and literary work. The narrative reflects on Hearn's early life experiences, emphasizing the lack of familial bonds, education, and stability he endured, all of which shaped his artistic vision and life choices. Overall, this portion of the book sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Hearn's later interactions, literary accomplishments, and the complexities of his persona.