When was Emily Dickinson considered a success as a writer? This question often elicits a range of answers, as the recognition of Dickinson’s literary prowess unfolded over time. Initially, Dickinson was not widely recognized during her lifetime, but her success as a writer is often attributed to the posthumous publication of her poetry, which brought her to the forefront of American literature.
Emily Dickinson, born on December 10, 1830, in Amherst, Massachusetts, was a reclusive poet who wrote over 1,800 poems during her lifetime. Her work was largely unknown to the public, and she was not considered a professional writer. Instead, Dickinson’s poetry was shared with a select few friends and family members, who were her primary audience. This isolation from the literary world contributed to the perception that she was not a successful writer during her time.
However, Dickinson’s success as a writer began to take shape after her death on May 15, 1886. Her sister, Lavinia, discovered a trove of her sister’s poetry and manuscripts, which were then published in 1890. The first collection, titled “Poems by Emily Dickinson,” contained 117 of her poems. This publication marked the beginning of Dickinson’s literary renaissance, as her work started to gain attention from both critics and readers.
One of the most significant milestones in Dickinson’s recognition as a successful writer was the publication of “The Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson” in 1960. This comprehensive collection, edited by R. W. Franklin, brought together all of Dickinson’s known poetry, revealing the depth and breadth of her work. The book received critical acclaim and helped to establish Dickinson as one of America’s greatest poets.
Furthermore, the 20th century saw a surge in the study and appreciation of Dickinson’s poetry. Poets, scholars, and critics alike began to analyze her work, exploring her unique style, innovative techniques, and profound themes. This scholarly interest in Dickinson’s poetry solidified her status as a successful writer, as her work became an integral part of American literary history.
In conclusion, Emily Dickinson was not considered a success as a writer during her lifetime. However, her posthumous recognition and the subsequent acclaim for her poetry have established her as one of the most celebrated poets in American history. The publication of her work and the scholarly interest that followed have ultimately elevated Dickinson to the status of a literary icon, making her a success as a writer in the eyes of history.
