This text gathers together the writings and designs of one of the most influential British designers of the last 100 years. Through his own work and in his own words, the book follows the progress of William Morris, Pre-Raphaelite poet and architectural student, to designer, writer and pioneer socialist. Intimate aspects of his life and personality are revealed - in particular the despair he felt at the failure of his relationship with his wife - and the correspondence shows his reliance on friends to help him through crises. Written by a leading expert on 19th century art and design, this work conveys something of the man, as well as providing a document of his achievements.