Henry James (1843-1916) was a prolific American-born writer, regarded as one of the key figures of 19th-century literary realism. Born in New York City, James spent much of his life in Europe and became a British subject shortly before his death. He is well-known for his novels, short stories, and criticism. His works are characterized by their keen psychological insight, narrative sophistication, and exploration of consciousness and morality. James's style is marked by his scrupulous technique and well-crafted prose, often delving deeply into the inner lives of his characters. One of his lesser-known works, 'The Sacred Fount' (1901), showcases his enduring fascination with the nuances of interpersonal relationships. This novel, one of his more experimental, interrogates the connections between love, art, and the vigour of life, utilizing a complex, unreliable narrative perspective that was innovative for its time. The book, though not as widely celebrated as some of his masterpieces such as 'The Portrait of a Lady' (1881) and 'The Wings of the Dove' (1902), exemplifies James's literary experimentation and his talent for introspective storytelling. His influence on the development of the modern novel cannot be overstated; James's exploration of consciousness and moral ambiguity paved the way for future generations of writers.