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As an English major, I studied Anne Bradstreet in college and enjoyed her. I was thrilled to find out several years later she is my 9th great-grandmother! I love the spirituality and honesty of her writings. My favorite is "As Weary Pilgrim," as it captures the fatigue we sometimes feel in battling the adversities of life, and the hope of rest in a glorious afterlife. I love the cadence of the poem; it gives me a restful feeling. Reading colonial writings such as these, I'm remined of the foundation upon which our nation was built and the admirable character of some of these early Americans. It has become popular to "trash" the early Puritans. I am grateful for Anne Bradstreet's legacy of faith and courage, and the legacy of others who lived in her day.
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"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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