Click an author to read a biographical essay prepared by a local student. The word 'Maine' for most people conjures up images of rocky shores, pine trees, and lobster dinners. Those who have visited know that crossing the Piscataqua River and entering New England's largest state means entering another world. And it is. Harsh winters melt into magical summers.
Life moves a little more slowly, and the savoring of it is a little more important.
Sitting in my lush backyard on a perfect summer day, it is easy to understand why so many writers have felt drawn to this place. Maine is steeped in the New England literary tradition that continues to influence the active artistic community that thrives here today. This overview is intended to provide a brief introduction to this rich heritage. It includes both native writers and those from away who have touched or been touched by the state of Maine and thus influenced American literature. Although some of the writers mentioned here might also be claimed by other states, they have been included here because they contributed to Maine's literary landscape in some important way.