Penulis: Edgar Saltus

Edgar Saltus, an American writer renowned for his sardonic wit and opulent prose, was a significant figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born on October 8, 1855, in New York City to a wealthy and prestigious family, Saltus”s literary style often reflects his indulgence in the aesthetic and decadent hallmarks of his era. He graduated from Columbia College in 1875 and Columbia Law School in 1878, though he was drawn more towards literature than law. His oeuvre is marked by a fascination with historical figures and luxury, lucidly presented in Imperial Purple (1892), a work that muses on the lives and excesses of Roman emperors. Well-versed in both philosophy and the classics, Saltus integrated elements of Hedonism and Pessimism into his work, standing as a testament to his deep intellectualism and familiarity with cultural lore. Despite his erudition and unique place in American letters, Saltus has not maintained a prominent legacy, often regarded as an underappreciated figure relegated to the periphery of literary scholarship. Nevertheless, his contributions to the fabric of American decadent literature cannot be understated, as they continue to entice scholars with their richness and defy the constraints of their time with their inventive style and themes.