The Art of the Essay
Short Nonfiction that Informs, Inspires, and Entertains
Our collection of well-crafted nonfiction ranges from personal to political, from solemn to comedic, from enlightening to entertaining. Browse these lists and learn essential vocabulary from masters of short-form writing.
Notes of a Native SonIn this collection of essays, Baldwin explores literature and film, life in Harlem, his experiences as an expatriate in Paris, and more.
Consider the LobsterIn this essay collection, David Foster Wallace muses on everything crustaceans to Franz Kafka.
A Vindication of the Rights of WomanFirst published in 1792, this essay argues that women should have access to the same educational opportunities afforded to men. Read the full text here.
Between the World and MeFramed as a letter to his teenaged son, Coates's book is a profound meditation on race in American culture. Learn these words from the National Book Award winner.
Me Talk Pretty One DayIn this collection of humorous essays, Sedaris reflects on his childhood, living in New York City, and moving to France.
The Fire Next TimeIn this classic essay, James Baldwin reflects on his youthful experiences and probes America's history of racial injustice.
A Room of One's OwnBased on lectures that Woolf delivered at Cambridge, this essay argues that women need financial independence and private spaces in order to create literature.
The Souls of Black FolkW.E.B. Du Bois explores the struggles and triumphs of generations of African Americans in this collection of essays.
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