Fitz-James O'Brien, a name that flutters in the annals of literary history, deserves a second glance. But why are we still talking about him? What is it about "WHAT WAS IT? AND OTHERS" that merits our attention, or perhaps our ire? In an age overflowing with mediocrity, this collection of stories forces us to confront the stagnation of contemporary literature and the audacity of those who consider themselves writers today.

### The Blunt Reality of O'Brien's Genius

O'Brien's work is a mixed ba...