Annie Dillard's literary contributions have garnered widespread acclaim, distinguishing her as a prominent figure in American literature. Her diverse body of work spans multiple genres, including transcendentalist meditations on nature like Holy the Firm (1977) and Pilgrim at Tinker Creek (1974), her introspective autobiography An American Childhood (1987), the poetic collection Tickets for a Prayer Wheel (1974), and Living by Fiction (1982), a series of essays exploring the concerns of contemporary writers. Among these, The Living stands out as her first foray into novel writing.

Critics have lauded The Living for its expansive narrative scope and humanistic depth, celebrating its ability to vividly capture the essence of its characters' experiences through Dillard's fluid prose. The novel skillfully intertwines various seemingly unrelated plot lines into a cohesive whole. While The Living does not follow any direct literary models, its intent bears resemblance to fictionalized historical epics, such as Barbara Tuchman’s A Distant Mirror (1978). Its style also echoes the naturalistic fiction characteristic of the early twentieth century. Remarkably, Dillard’s work stands as an American epic, focusing on a unique region often overlooked in the broader narrative of American settlement and expansion. Her personal experiences in the area and thorough historical research enrich the novel's authenticity.

Through The Living, Dillard demonstrates her versatility and imaginative prowess, solidifying her status as a cornerstone of American literary tradition. Her achievements have been recognized with prestigious accolades: grants from the Guggenheim Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts, and various awards, including the Pulitzer Prize, the Washington Governor’s Award, the New York Press Club Award, and the Ambassador Book Award in Arts and Letters from the English-Speaking Union. Annie Dillard continues to leave a lasting impact on the literary world through her unique ability to blend personal insight with historical narrative.