Family Correspondence of Herman Melville Book

Henry Miller and The Stroker is an interest little compilation of personal letters, articles, and essays written by Henry Miller to either his friend, Irving, or for Irving's magazine, The Stroker.

As one would expect, Miller's writing is thought-provoking. His essays and articles are, as always, well-written and personal. His letters, however, offer the reader a rare and very personal look into the mind of an aging Miller. His appreciation for friends and culture is very prevalent, his disdain with society even more pronounced.

When I first learned of this book, I was rather excited. I mean, Miller does not hol back in his book, but in The Stroker he was given a free-range. Write whatever and we will publish it! Only a few authors were afforded such a luxury in recent memory. This is where I was left a bit disappointed, as Miller does not really push the envelope as much as I had expected. Nevertheless, I can attribute it to a change in his demeanor brought on by his age.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read that offered me some new insights into Henry Miller, the man. He was an amazing writer and a fascinating person.

If you are a life-long Miller fan, then this book might be for you. If you just gave him a cursory look and read one or two of his books, then this book will probably not entertain you.