Stephen Crane (1871–1900) was an American poet, novelist, and short story writer. Pioneering the naturalist writing movement and frequently credited with introducing impressionism to narrative fiction, Crane's literary contributions marked him as an innovative force in late 19th-century American literature. His most acclaimed work, 'The Red Badge of Courage' (1895), which never enjoyed contemporary success in Crane's own life, portrays the grim realities of war through the eyes of a young private, influencing later war literature with its psychological depth and stark realism. The volume 'Stephen Crane: Collected Works' encompasses the breadth of his literary output, from his gritty urban tales to his poetic expressions. Beyond 'The Red Badge of Courage', Crane's other notable works include 'Maggie: A Girl of the Streets' (1893), a milestone in American literary naturalism that explores themes of poverty and prostitution. Despite his brief life and career, Crane's stylistic innovations and frank depiction of the human condition bestowed upon him posthumous acclaim, cementing his position as a seminal figure in the transition from 19th-century to modernist literature. His work is characterized by the profound use of irony, vivid color impressions, and the inner workings of his characters' minds, often illuminating the existential struggles of the individual.