Publisher's Synopsis
Nineteenth century Americans loved sonnets. This volume contains eighty two poems found in either Godey's Lady's Book or the American Ladies' Magazine between 1828 and 1876. Some were widely reprinted in the nineteenth century while others might never have been published outside of Godey's until now. Not all of these sonnets follow the traditional form, but they represent a literature widely read by nineteenth century Americans. Over forty poets are represented here including, among others, Julia Perkins Pratt Ballard (Kruna), William Cullen Bryant, Ebenezer Elliott, Elizabeth Clementine Kinney, Mary E. Lee, Mary Spenser Pease, William Gilmore Simms, Elizabeth Oakes Smith, R. H. Stoddard, H. T. Tuckerman, and N. P. Willis. Most, but not all, are American. These poets speak to us across time with their poems about life, relationships, the natural world, and more. Read each one slowly, and savor.
