The Works of Anne Bradstreet (John Harvard Library)

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Summary: Anne Bradstreet's voice reaches across the centuries.
Review: "If ever two were one, then we. If ever man were loved by wife, then thee." (From "To My Dear and Loving Husband") Anne Bradstreet was the first person in the American colonies of 1650 to have a book of poetry published. Her brother-in-law wrote a "disclaimer" for the opening of the book to assure her readers that she had not neglected either her motherly or wifely duties to write her poetry. While it can be hard reading simply because of colonial vs. modern english, her work is timeless. (The lines I put at the beginning of this review are engraved in my husband's and my wedding bands.) Her poem "Contemplations" is a very spiritual and free piece of work. Her work includes two poems written after the death of two grandchildren that will make you cry. Worth the effort of reading to learn about 17th century women, and the poetry that was enjoyed at the time.

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Summary: America's first great poet
Review: How many people know that America's first great poet was a woman? Reading this collection of her works leaves one in little doubt about her greatness. The consummate artistry with which she expresses her inmost feelings pulls her to us, across the divide of three and a half centuries. Bradstreet's poetry shows that those Puritans, with their funny clothes, intolerant religion, and witch hunts experienced love, longing, and loss with much the same emotions that we do. Very highly recommended.

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Summary: My family
Review: I started reading Anne Bradstreet because I'm directly descended from her, but I kept reading because of her intelligent and unique voice.

Rating:
Summary: Anne Bradstreet's voice reaches across the centuries.
Review: Three hundred and fifty years later, Anne Bradstreet still touches the heart and soul of her readers. On the Burning of My House still reminds us of where our priorities need to be, and on the importance of family. As a 10th great granddaughter, I realize that her works were written not only for herself and for her peers, but for the thousands of descendants in the world today. That is what makes truly great literature.