"Major Prophets of To-Day" by Edwin E. Slosson is a literary collection written in the early 20th century. The book serves as an introduction to contemporary thinkers who have greatly influenced modern philosophical and scientific thought, providing insights into how their ideas shape human understanding and culture. Slosson aims to present these influential figures in a way that readers might appreciate and pursue for further exploration. The opening portion of the work consists of a preface and the first chapter, which introduces Mauricer Maeterlinck, a prominent playwright and philosopher. Slosson reflects on his exploration to meet various thinkers in their environments to understand their ideologies better. This chapter focuses on Maeterlinck and captures both a personal visit to his abode at the Abbey of St. Wandrille and the philosophical underpinnings of his works—particularly his views on life, nature, and the interplay between past and present. It paints a vivid picture of Maeterlinck's life, his artistic influences, and the deep connections between his literary themes and naturalism, establishing a foundation for further discussions about the influential figures who will follow in subsequent chapters. (This is an automatically generated summary.)