Examines the works and lives of American writers from 1945 up to the present, covering the political events of that time period and analyzing the historical and cultural contexts of their writings. American literature of the 20th century focuses on a variety of topics, from the violence of war and the struggle for civil rights to the social impact of technology and the moral significance of money. A concise, engaging guide to American contemporary literature, this volume provides information on 20th century writers; the 1950s, 1960s, and beyond; contemporary American poetry; new voices; and the postmodern movement. Writers covered include: Bob Dylan, Lyndon Johnson, John F. Kennedy, Alfred C. Kinsey, Norman Mailer, Toni Morrison, Adrienne Rich, J. D. Salinger, Kurt Vonnegut, and more.