Meaning: The quote you provided is from Shelby Foote, an American author known for his works on the American Civil War. In this quote, Foote is discussing the success of his novels, specifically mentioning "Follow Me Down" and "Shiloh." Foote's reflections on the reception of his work shed light on the challenges and triumphs of a writer's career.

In "Follow Me Down," Foote explores the themes of small-town life, family dynamics, and the impact of past events on the present. The novel received positive critical attention and went into a second printing, indicating a level of commercial success and reader interest. This early success likely provided Foote with validation and encouragement to continue pursuing his career as a writer.

However, Foote goes on to emphasize that "Shiloh" was the most successful of his first five novels. "Shiloh" is a historical novel set during the Civil War, a subject that would become central to Foote's body of work. The novel takes its name from the Battle of Shiloh, a significant and bloody engagement that took place in April 1862. Foote's portrayal of this pivotal moment in American history resonated with readers and critics, propelling "Shiloh" to greater success than his previous works. The novel's popularity likely elevated Foote's profile as an author and solidified his reputation as a skilled storyteller with a deep understanding of the Civil War era.

Foote's acknowledgment of the varying degrees of success among his early novels provides insight into the unpredictable nature of publishing and the literary world. Even with positive critical reception and a second printing, "Follow Me Down" did not achieve the same level of success as "Shiloh." This contrast underscores the complexities of audience reception and the factors that contribute to a book's impact in the marketplace.

As an author, Foote experienced the highs and lows of the publishing industry, navigating the challenges of establishing himself and finding an audience for his work. His journey from the moderate success of "Follow Me Down" to the significant achievement of "Shiloh" reflects the perseverance and resilience required to sustain a writing career.

Beyond the commercial aspects of success, Foote's mention of "good critical notices" indicates the importance of literary recognition and validation for an author. Positive reviews and critical acclaim can bolster an author's confidence and contribute to a book's longevity in the cultural conversation. In the case of "Shiloh," the combination of critical acclaim and commercial success likely contributed to its enduring impact and solidified its place in Foote's body of work.

Foote's reflections on the reception of his early novels offer valuable insights into the dynamics of authorship, the intersection of commercial success and critical acclaim, and the enduring significance of certain works in an author's oeuvre. It is a reminder that literary success is multifaceted, encompassing both the commercial reception of a book and its critical appraisal within the broader literary landscape.

In conclusion, Shelby Foote's quote provides a glimpse into the trajectory of his early writing career, highlighting the varying degrees of success among his novels and the impact of "Shiloh" as a standout achievement. His reflections underscore the complexities of authorship, the interplay between commercial success and critical recognition, and the enduring legacy of certain works within an author's body of literature.