Genius 2016

Perkins reads Wolfe's draft and decides to publish

In 1929, Maxwell Perkins, editor at Scribner's, reads the drafts of O Lost in his New York City office and is struck by its bold, sprawling voice. He sees great potential in publishing the manuscript and decides to collaborate closely with Wolfe. He begins shaping the work toward what will become Look Homeward, Angel.

Look Homeward, Angel is published and becomes a hit

Look Homeward, Angel is published and quickly proves commercially successful. Sales reach about 15,000 copies in a month, signaling Perkins's knack for launching major literary careers. The bold collaboration between editor and author deepens as they navigate revisions and publicity.

Perkins and Wolfe form a close partnership; Aline's relationship is tested

Perkins and Wolfe become best friends, sharing a close professional kinship. The novel's success strains Wolfe's relationship with Aline Bernstein, a married woman twenty years his senior. Their bond and the book's reception bind their careers together even as personal life grows complicated.

Wolfe's second novel gains momentum after long revisions

Several years pass as Wolfe hones his craft, and Perkins continues to champion his work. Wolfe's second novel, Of Time and the River, is eventually published with Perkins's help. The book reinforces Wolfe's reputation and cements Perkins's role as a transformative editor.

Wolfe writes from Paris, staying connected through Perkins

Wolfe travels to Paris, following events remotely thanks to updates from Perkins. He keeps his finger on the publishing pulse despite being abroad. Perkins remains his crucial link to the literary world and to future publications.

Wolfe returns to New York and resumes writing

Upon returning to New York, Wolfe immediately resumes writing his new book. The pace is intense, reflecting his volatile temperament. Perkins and others steer his career while Wolfe pushes beyond conventional boundaries.

A rift with Perkins; Wolfe seeks another editor

Wolfe's turbulent character leads to a quarrel with Perkins, souring their once-close partnership. The rift is severe enough that Wolfe turns to another editor to handle his work. The editor-author alliance that defined his early career dissolves.

Aline Bernstein leaves Wolfe to learn loneliness

Aline Bernstein eventually leaves Wolfe, believing he needs to experience loneliness. Her departure underscores Wolfe's isolation even amid literary fame. Perkins watches the personal fallout as the professional relationship shifts.

Wolfe falls ill; Perkins learns of the illness by phone

Perkins receives a phone call from Wolfe's mother reporting that Wolfe has contracted miliary tuberculosis. The news lands as a sobering turn in their fragile relationship and Wolfe's life. Perkins contemplates the future of Wolfe's career under the cloud of illness.