The Art of Fiction

James Salter’s exalted place in American letters is based largely on the intense admiration of other writers, but his work resonates far beyond the realm of fellow craftsmen, addressing themes—youth, war, erotic love, marriage, life abroad, friendship—that speak to us all.

Following the publication of his first novel, Salter left behind a military career of great promise to write full—time and—through decades of searching, exacting work—became one of American literature’s master stylists. On...