Lives of the Poets

Exploring the theme of lost innocence, E. L. Doctorow's collection presents poignant stories that delve into the complexities of life and creativity. In "The Writer in the Family," a young man grapples with the ethics of deception through writing. "Wili" depicts the shattering effects of infidelity, while "The Foreign Legation" intertwines personal turmoil with political chaos. These narratives culminate in the novella "Lives of the Poets," where the narrator's introspective journey reveals the intricate relationship between artistic expression and emotional truth.