The book is a collection of his previously unpublished 'essays' on/about a variety of topics.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.
(..) - Oh! And it's pretty. - That too. Yeah. But the thing is, it turns out there is more to Runway than just fancy purses. Look, here's an essay by Jay McInerney, a piece by Joan Didion. Even an interview with Christiane Amanpour. - Looks like someone's been drinking the Kool-Aid. - What do you- (..)2006 The Devil Wears Prada