Meaning: The quote you provided is from Carl Doren, a renowned American critic, and it discusses the significance of James Fenimore Cooper's life in relation to the development of American fiction. Doren suggests that it is coincidental that Cooper was born in the same year as the publication of The Power of Sympathy and that he passed away during the serial stage of Uncle Tom's Cabin. Despite this coincidence, Doren asserts that the timeline of Cooper's life aligns with a crucial period in the evolution of American fiction.

James Fenimore Cooper, born in 1789 and passing away in 1851, was an influential American writer known for his contributions to the development of American literature, particularly in the genre of historical fiction. The Power of Sympathy, published in 1789, is considered one of the earliest American novels, and Uncle Tom's Cabin, written by Harriet Beecher Stowe, is a seminal work in American literature that played a significant role in the abolitionist movement.

Doren's quote suggests that despite the coincidental timing of Cooper's life in relation to these significant literary works, his impact on American fiction cannot be overlooked. The "first great period of American fiction" that Doren refers to likely encompasses the early 19th century, during which American literature was coming into its own, distinct from European influences and beginning to address uniquely American themes and experiences.

During this period, American writers were exploring the nation's identity, history, and social issues, and Cooper's literary contributions played a pivotal role in shaping the emerging American literary tradition. His most famous works, including the Leatherstocking Tales series featuring the iconic character Natty Bumppo, contributed to the establishment of the historical romance genre in American literature.

Cooper's portrayal of the American frontier and his exploration of themes such as wilderness, individualism, and the clash of cultures between Native Americans and European settlers resonated with readers and significantly influenced the development of American fiction. His writing style and thematic explorations set a precedent for future American authors to engage with uniquely American subjects and experiences in their work.

It is important to note that Doren's quote not only highlights the significance of Cooper's literary contributions but also underscores the broader historical and cultural context in which American fiction was evolving. The early 19th century was a time of social and political change in the United States, and literature played a crucial role in reflecting and shaping the national consciousness.

Cooper's impact on American fiction extends beyond his own lifetime, as his work continued to inspire and influence generations of writers who followed. His legacy can be seen in the works of later American authors who drew inspiration from his portrayal of the American landscape and his exploration of themes related to identity, morality, and the human experience.

In conclusion, Carl Doren's quote serves as a reminder of James Fenimore Cooper's enduring influence on American fiction and the pivotal role he played during a formative period in the development of the nation's literary tradition. Cooper's contributions to the genre of historical fiction and his exploration of uniquely American themes continue to resonate with readers and scholars, solidifying his place in the pantheon of American literary giants.