A Twain Revival? 175 Years of Harper's and the Enduring Legacy of Huckleberry Finn
Is a Mark Twain revival underway in the 175th-anniversary year of Harper’s Magazine, a publication that consistently featured Twain’s work? Percival Everett's National Book Award-winning novel, *James*, reimagines *Adventures of Huckleberry Finn* from Jim's perspective, while Shelley Fisher Fishkin's new book on Jim adds to the renewed interest. Conan O'Brien's Mark Twain Prize acceptance speech subtly criticized the political climate. Ron Chernow's new Twain biography further fuels this resurgence. The author reflects on their personal, complex relationship with Twain's work, exploring the meaning of this revival and the ongoing search for hidden meanings within Twain's writing. Ultimately, the essay argues that Everett's *James* successfully adds Jim's inner life, offering a fresh perspective on the classic tale.