The title, "Peter: A Novel of Which He is Not the Hero," humorously suggests that the character Peter is not the central protagonist of the story, which is a playful literary device. The novel is set in New York City and explores the lives and relationships of a group of characters who live in the same building.The story unfolds through a series of interconnected narratives, each focusing on a different character's experiences and perspectives. While Peter is not the primary hero, the novel weaves together the stories of various residents in a way that reflects their individual struggles, joys, and challenges in the urban environment of the late 19th century.Francis Hopkinson Smith's writing is known for its rich descriptive detail, and he was a contemporary of other American writers of his time, such as Henry James and Edith Wharton. "Peter: A Novel of Which He is Not the Hero" is appreciated for its portrayal of life in the city and its exploration of human relationships and experiences, making it a valuable contribution to American literature.