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Francis Hopkinson Smith (1838-1915) was an American author, artist, and engineer, whose eclectic talents made him a notable figure in late 19th and early 20th century literature and arts. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Smith was also a descendant of Francis Hopkinson, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Smith's literary output includes a number of novels, short stories, and travel writings, characterized by a charming and often romantic depiction of old-world manners and settings, alongside a quintessential American optimism and ingenuity.
One of his lesser-known works, 'Fiddles' demonstrates Smith's capacity for capturing the intricacies of human emotion and the quaint charm of his characters. While perhaps not as famous as 'The Fortunes of Oliver Horn' (1902) or 'Colonel Carter of Cartersville' (1891), 'Fiddles' exemplifies Smith's narrative style that combines gentle humor with poignant observation, typifying the author's broader contribution to American pre-modernist literature. More scholarly work on Smith's oeuvre could elucidate the influence of his writing on both the cultural milieu of his time and the development of regional American literary styles. His engineering background also sometimes infused his works with technical precision and a deep appreciation for the practical creativity inherent in American invention and industry.
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