Definition: The term "Elizabeth and James" refers to a series of books written by American author Elizabeth Bishop, published in 1975. The title comes from the name of the sisters, Elizabeth and Mary, who lived during the first half of the eighteenth century. The book series includes several short stories set in different fictional settings. It explores themes of identity, memory, and the meaning of life through the eyes of the characters. Many of the stories are based on real-life events or historical figures. "Elizabeth and James" is known for its complex structure, with multiple narrative voices and overlapping plots. The stories often intertwine within one another, providing a sense of continuity and unity as readers follow each chapter in the same chronological order. The book has been praised for its depth and complexity, and it has won several awards, including the National Book Award. The series has also had some controversy over its content, with some critics arguing that it perpetuates a culture of identity theft and romanticized history, while others see it as a celebration of human connection and memory.