Emily Dickinson: My Wars Are Laid Away in Books

One of America's greatest poets, Emily Dickinson remains largely an enigma. Alfred Habegger, author of The Father: A Life of Henry James, Sr., sheds new light on Dickinson in his biography, My Wars Are Laid Away in Books: The Life of Emily Dickinson.
In his new book, Habegger probes provocative questions: Was she a lesbian? Why did she refuse to publish her poetry, and why was this refusal so integral to her work? Using legal archives, congregational records and previously unpublished fragments of Dickinson's own letters, Habegger provides a rare personal glimpse into Dickinson's troubled brilliance and shows how Dickinson tuned her "voice" and turned her personal life into a work of art.

[@Phorquieu]

Absolutely the most informative and fascinating discussion of Emily Dickinson that I have ever heard. Mr. Habegger's discussion of Emily Dickinson's father (and the family's strict Calvinism) was very revealing, and this (along with a failed love life and bad health) explains a lot about Emily's reclusive behavior (especially in her later life). A lecture well worth listening to!

[@cafepoem189]

Thank you for uploading the video. The lecture is very instructive.

[@seagullpoet]

There’s so many fascinating books out about Emily.
All these authors / biographers are top notch.

[@marekdrzewiecki3780]

Great lecture!

[@heathersickels]

The lecturer mentions Emily was in her fiftys in 1852-she was born in 1830 actually

[@TheJfairburn]

I think he was referring to her mother also named Emily, Emily Norcross Dickinson

[@9Ballr]

How ironic that Emily's father had a daughter who clearly surpassed him in intellect.

[@heathersickels]

Quite common for a daughter to surpass her father’s intellect. 50/50 chance really

[@plumjam]

Great talk. Thanks.

[@snail_viXen]

✨🐌✨