When some two years ago a collection of Atlantic essays was offered to the public it was the editor's idea that this volume should be to use the current phrase a kind of permanent exhibit of the character and quality of The Atlantic. In these hurrying days even the sedatest of magazines must quicken its pace to keep abreast of the marching world and much that is most serviceable in The Atlantic during its appointed life dies at the heart when a new number brings fresh interests to men's minds. But a residue there is no more useful at the time perhaps than much which perishes but which evidently ought to have such length of days as the covers of a book can ensure for it. The experiment was made with the first volume of Atlantic Classics composed of sixteen essays by as many authors all dealing with topics of more than temporary interest. The success of this book which has been many times reprinted outstripped anticipation; more than that it assumed a character quite unlooked for and proceeded on its own account to introduce itself into the curricula of colleges and high schools throughout the country welcomed as the editor is credibly informed by students as well as by teachers.
Even a layman can see that in such a use there is a sound development. A book of contemporary expression exhilarating to the student and knitting his interests to those of the world outside the schoolroom may be peculiarly suited to call forth his appreciation and to kindle emulation within him. Such a book may teach him to think of literature as a living thing quite as alive and full of spirit as he is himself and by such method perhaps tender shoots of young intelligence may be spared the blighting influence of too formal education.