In 1858 Trelawny published "Recollections of the Last Days of Shelley and Byron". This book was better received than previous biographies of Shelley, such as "The Life of Percy Bysshe Shelley". Although he had known Shelley for only six months, Trelawny was thereafter recognised as the preeminent Shelley expert. His first memoir was republished then, as well. He often edited his letters before they were published. The edits attempted to cover up some of his insecurities and defend his reputation. He frequently characterised himself as a survivor in his writings.