You Can't Go Home Again

In this sequel to The Web and the Rock and the last novel Wolfe wrote, George Webber, back from Europe, resumes his affair with Esther Jack and finally succeeds as a writer. At the pinnacle of his happiness, he returns to his hometown in North Carolina.

It's a mistake, for Webber is disillusioned by what he sees. The episode is said to parallel Wolfe's own experience in Asheville, NC, and is therefore highly autobiographical.

"A vital and wide-embracing picture of American life." (The New York Times)