Fitz-James O'Brien (25 October 1826 — 6 April 1862) was an Irish-American writer of works in fantasy and science fiction short stories.

After James's death in 1839/40, Eliza remarried DeCourcy O'Grady, and the family moved to Limerick, where Fitz-James spent most of his teenage years.

Despite this physical distance, O'Brien maintained a connection to Ireland, often reflected in his published writings, which frequently explored themes of identity and nostalgia.

His past writings presented opportunities, with several pieces having already been published in The Family Friend, a London-based magazine founded in January 1849.

The nature of this work within the central hub of the world fair consumed O'Brien's time and energy but provided him with writing experience.

This circle, led by Henry Clapp, Jr. and Ada Clare, included figures like Brougham and O'Brien, who assumed major roles.

The year 1858 marked a significant turning point in O'Brien's literary journey as he delved into weird and horror fiction, just as the influence of Romanticism was waning.

The narrative revolves around a mad scientist driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, a theme that recurs in O'Brien's work.

The pursuit of scientific enlightenment is tainted by the protagonist's irrational desires and relentless quest for fame and fortune, leading him to morally questionable actions.

The story, infused with philosophical undertones and moral introspection, prompts readers to contemplate fundamental questions about the human condition.

At Pfaff's Beer Hall, patrons viewed the divide cynically, seeing it as a power struggle exploiting the common man for personal gain.

A crowd of over one hundred thousand gathered at Union Square to bid farewell to the 7th New York Militia Regiment, composed of young merchants, bankers, professionals, and clerks, enlisted to defend Washington.

Despite a warm welcome upon their return to New York on June 1, 1861, O'Brien continued to seek opportunities to contribute, eventually joining General Lander's staff in Virginia.

[2]: 232–251 His friend William Winter collected The Poems and Stories of Fitz James O'Brien, to which are added personal recollections by associates that knew him.