Sam Moskowitz, the leading historian of the fantasy/science fiction genre, has written the first full-length account and critique of A. Merritt, his life, works, sources, influences, hobbies, personality, friends, philosophy, strengths and weaknesses, all in the perspective of his milieu.The book contains a previously unknown short story, totally unlike any other Merritt tales. There is also a short fantasy that appeared in The American Weekly under a pen name.There is a section of poetry (26 items here assembled for the first time) and letters. Finally, there are letters and essays about Merritt, written by the people who knew him best -- the staff members of The American Weekly where the writer spent so many years.