Context:

Ron Chernow's new biography on Mark Twain, set to release soon, marks a departure from his previous works on political and business figures, focusing instead on a literary figure known for his wit and public persona. Chernow explores Twain's multifaceted life, touching on his role as a celebrity, his complex relationship with politics and finances, and his penchant for public speaking. The biography delves into Twain's personal life, including his marriage to Olivia and his controversial relationships with young girls, whom he affectionately dubbed his 'angelfish'. Chernow also examines Twain's ambivalent feelings towards wealth and the self-loathing that underpinned his humor, providing a nuanced view of the author as a man of contradictions. Through this exploration, Chernow highlights Twain's impact on American culture while also revealing the complexities of his character and personal struggles.

Dive Deeper:

• Ron Chernow, acclaimed for his biographies of historical figures like Alexander Hamilton and Ulysses Grant, ventures into the literary realm with a 1,200-page biography of Mark Twain, emphasizing Twain's celebrity status and public persona rather than his literary works.

• Chernow's interest in Twain dates back to a 1970s stage performance by Hal Holbrook, which portrayed Twain's witty and humorous personality, sparking a long-standing fascination that eventually culminated in this comprehensive biography.

• The book investigates Twain's financial struggles despite substantial author royalties and his wife's inherited wealth, highlighting his failed business ventures and paradoxical relationship with the plutocrats he often criticized.

• Twain's personal life is scrutinized, particularly his marriage to Olivia, described as a genuine love match despite suspicions it was motivated by financial gain, and his controversial interactions with young girls, whom he called 'angelfish', which, while innocent, are viewed differently today.

• Chernow offers insights into Twain's political views, noting his disdain for contemporaneous figures like Teddy Roosevelt, whom Twain likened to the attention-seeking Tom Sawyer, reflecting Twain's sharp political commentary.

• The biography reveals the dichotomy of Twain's character, embodying both a pursuit of wealth and a deep-seated self-loathing, often masked by his humor, resonating with the stereotype of the sad clown.

• Chernow touches on the impact of Twain's fame on his family, particularly his daughter Clara, who struggled with her father's overshadowing legacy and her own identity within his vast public shadow.