Visitor Guide To The Literary South: Exploring the Rich Literary Heritage of the Southern United States

The Southern United States has long been celebrated for its rich literary heritage. From the works of renowned authors like William Faulkner and Tennessee Williams to iconic settings like the Mississippi Delta and the streets of New Orleans, the Literary South offers a unique and captivating experience for literature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. In this comprehensive visitor guide, we will take you on a journey through the cities, towns, and landscapes that have inspired some of the greatest literary works of all time. So grab your favorite book, put on your traveling shoes, and join us as we explore the Literary South.

1. Discover Mississippi: The Land of Faulkner

No literary tour of the South would be complete without a visit to Mississippi, the birthplace of William Faulkner, one of America's greatest novelists. Start your journey in Oxford, where you can explore the iconic Rowan Oak, Faulkner's former residence and a National Historic Landmark. Walk in the footsteps of Faulkner as you explore the grounds and gain a deeper understanding of the landscapes that influenced his writing.

While in Mississippi, take a trip to the legendary Mississippi Delta, a region known for its rich cultural heritage and role in the birth of the blues. Visit Clarksdale, the home of the Delta Blues Museum and the infamous Crossroads, where folklore tells the story of Robert Johnson selling his soul to the devil in exchange for musical talent. Immerse yourself in the music and history that have shaped the region and continue to inspire artists and writers to this day.

A Visitor's Guide to the Literary South

by Trish Foxwell(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4177 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages
Paperback	:	20 pages
Item Weight	:	1.27 ounces
Dimensions	:	7 x 0.05 x 10 inches

FREE

2. Journey through the Streets of New Orleans

Next on our literary adventure is the vibrant city of New Orleans. Known for its lively music scene, eclectic architecture, and rich cultural traditions, New Orleans has served as a backdrop for countless novels, poems, and plays throughout history. Start your exploration in the French Quarter, where you can visit the legendary Faulkner House Books, named after its former resident, and browse through a wide selection of Southern literature.

As you wander through the streets of New Orleans, be sure to soak in the atmospheric charm of Jackson Square, which has been immortalized in the works of numerous authors. Visit the historic St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, the resting place of famous writers like Anne Rice and Eudora Welty. And don't miss out on the vibrant literary scene that thrives in New Orleans, with bookstores, literary festivals, and open mic nights welcoming both local and visiting writers.

3. A Literary Pilgrimage to Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, with its picturesque streets lined with oak trees and historic mansions, provides the perfect setting for a literary pilgrimage. Start your journey at the Mercer-Williams House, made famous by John Berendt's bestselling book, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." Take a guided tour to uncover the secrets and stories that surround this captivating setting.

While in Savannah, visit the childhood home of celebrated author Flannery O'Connor, now a museum dedicated to her life and works. Explore the landscapes that influenced her unique blend of Southern Gothic and Catholic themes. And don't miss out on Bonaventure Cemetery, a hauntingly beautiful final resting place that has inspired countless writers over the years.

4. Literary Landscapes of North Carolina

North Carolina is home to a vast array of literary landscapes, from the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to the charming coastal towns. Start your exploration in Asheville, known for its vibrant arts scene and the historic Grove Park Inn, a favorite haunt of famous writers like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway. Immerse yourself in the literary history of the town and attend one of the many book festivals and author events that take place throughout the year.

Next, head to the beautiful Outer Banks, where you can visit the small island of Ocracoke and pay homage to the legendary pirate Blackbeard. Explore the dunes and lighthouses that have inspired countless adventure tales. And don't miss out on the literary gems found in Raleigh-Durham, with its renowned university bookstores, museums, and vibrant literary community.

5. The Charm of Charleston, South Carolina

Our journey through the Literary South comes to a close in the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina. Known for its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and southern hospitality, Charleston has been a muse for generations of writers. Visit the iconic Circular Congregational Church cemetery, the final resting place of Edgar Allan Poe's first love, and feel the connection to the literary past.

While in Charleston, explore the literary landmarks that have shaped the city's rich history. Visit the historic Dock Street Theatre, the oldest theater in America, and experience the magic of live performances. And don't miss the chance to visit the Charleston Library Society, one of the oldest subscription libraries in the United States, which hosts regular author talks and book signings.

: A Journey of Literary Discovery

The Literary South offers a wealth of experiences for those seeking to immerse themselves in the rich tradition of Southern literature. From the landscapes that inspired great novels to the vibrant literary scenes of cities like New Orleans and Charleston, there is something for every book lover to explore. So pack your bags, grab a copy of your favorite Southern novel, and embark on a literary journey through the captivating landscapes and literary landmarks of the Southern United States.

A Visitor's Guide to the Literary South

by Trish Foxwell(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4177 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages
Paperback	:	20 pages
Item Weight	:	1.27 ounces
Dimensions	:	7 x 0.05 x 10 inches

FREE

Discover and explore the most fabled venues in American letters.

Follow in the footsteps of some of American literature’s most renowned writers: See the hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, that inspired F. Scott Fitzgerald to pen The Great Gatsby. Step inside the Asheville, North Carolina, home that became the model for Thomas Wolfe’s Look Homeward Angel. Visit the Florida lighthouse whose beacon Stephen Crane followed after his shipwreck. Wander along the West Lawn at the University o Virginia and see the house where Edgar Allan Poe lived. This literary journey will bring you to these sites and more as you travel throughout the American South. From Virginia to Louisiana, you will experience the haunts, havens, and homesteads of important writers who lived in, visited, or were inspired by the South’s fertile soil.