This book is a collection of essays and letters written by four prominent writers who explored the theme of the ideal in their works. They examine the tension between the ideal and the practical, and the ways in which the ideal can both inspire and complicate one's life. The book is a great resource for anyone interested in the history of philosophy and literature, as well as the concept of the ideal in Western thought. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.