The book is a collection of his previously unpublished 'essays' on/about a variety of topics.
There is no hint as to which of the approaches 'essayed' in this book will prove most useful.
He 'essayed' [='tried', 'attempted'] 'to restore' an emphasis on classical languages.
(..) Know Washington and you will know practically... all there is to understand about the American republic." That's the way William Carlos Williams begins his essay. Washington is a good man and a supreme symbol of America. But as we get into the details... of this personal vision (..)1974 The Gambler