W. B. Yeats's "John Sherman; and, Dhoya" intricately weaves themes of identity and self-discovery through rich symbolism and lyrical prose. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Ireland, the narrative unfolds around the titular character, John Sherman, who embodies the struggle between personal ambition and societal expectations. The text exhibits Yeats's distinctive stylistic approach, combining elements of realism with a dreamlike imagination, offering profound meditations on love, fate, and the interplay of personal consciousness with the collective experience of Irish society. Through nuanced characterizations and evocative imagery, the book reveals Yeats's early reflections on the complexity of human emotion and spiritual longing in an emerging modernist landscape. As a prominent figure in modernist literature, W. B. Yeats's personal experiences and deep connection to Irish folklore profoundly influenced his writing. Yeats was not only a celebrated poet but also a fervent nationalist and a key figure in the Irish Literary Revival. His endeavors to explore and articulate the intricate nuances of the Irish psyche undoubtedly shaped the philosophical undercurrents in "John Sherman; and, Dhoya," drawing from mythological and cultural motifs that resonated with his own life and ideals. This book is a must-read for those intrigued by the intersections of identity and cultural narrative. Readers will find in Yeats's prose a compelling exploration that transcends its time, reflecting universal themes of aspiration and the human condition. "John Sherman; and, Dhoya" invites readers to engage not only with its characters but with their own existential quests, making it a timeless addition to the canon of modern literature.

In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A comprehensive Introduction outlines these selected works' unifying features, themes, or stylistic evolutions.
- The Author Biography highlights personal milestones and literary influences that shape the entire body of writing.
- A Historical Context section situates the works in their broader era—social currents, cultural trends, and key events that underpin their creation.
- A concise Synopsis (Selection) offers an accessible overview of the included texts, helping readers navigate plotlines and main ideas without revealing critical twists.
- A unified Analysis examines recurring motifs and stylistic hallmarks across the collection, tying the stories together while spotlighting the different work's strengths.
- Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the author's overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts.
- Lastly, our hand‐picked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collection's central themes.

William Butler Yeats (1865–1939) was a prolific Irish poet, dramatist, and one of the foremost figures of 20th-century literature. A pillar of both the Irish and British literary establishments, he helped to found the Abbey Theatre and, in his later years, served as an Irish Senator. Yeats was born in Dublin, Ireland, and his writing was significantly influenced by the rich cultural history of his homeland and its Celtic mythology. Drawing also on themes of nationalism, Yeats' early work often reflected the preoccupations of the Irish Literary Revival, a movement he was deeply entwined with. In his prose work 'John Sherman; and, Dhoya,' Yeats delves into fictional realms that reveal his early development toward the symbolic and mythic. The collection, which comprises a novella and a mythic tale, showcases his versatility and foreshadows the mystical and esoteric leanings that would come to characterize his later poetry. His literary style evolved over his career, incorporating complex symbolism and deep-set themes of identity, spirituality, and search for meaning. Yeats was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1923, affirming his significance in the world of letters. His works are a testament to the breadth of his literary talent and the depth of his intellectual inquiry.