Book excerpt: This composite picture of the present-day South is a far cry from the traditional South of sentimental novels. The symposium, including chapters by thirty-one economists, sociologists, educators, artists, and writers, is the most comprehensive, revealing, and authentic picture of the South yet published. Originally published in 1934. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.