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Letters of Sylvia Plath

This series of letters unveils the early life and nascent literary genius of a pivotal 20th-century poet. Through correspondence with family, friends, and professional contacts, a witty, curious, and unwavering creative spirit emerges. The letters chronicle her artistic development, the genesis of numerous works, and offer an intimate glimpse into her personal life and thoughts. It's a captivating testament to her dedication, facing both acceptance and rejection in pursuit of her unique artistic vision.

The Letters of Sylvia Plath Volume 1
Letters of Sylvia Plath Volume I: 1940-1956
Letters of Sylvia Plath Volume II
Letters of Sylvia Plath Volume II
Letters of Sylvia Plath Volume I

Recommended Reading Order

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    Sylvia Plath (1932-1963) was one of the writers who defined the course of twentieth-century poetry. Her vivid, daring and complex poetry continues to captivate new generations of readers and writers. In the Letters, we discover the art of Plath's correspondence, most of which has never before been published and is here presented unabridged, without revision, so that she speaks directly in her own words. Refreshingly candid and offering intimate details of her personal life, Plath is playful, too, entertaining a wide range of addressees, including family, friends and professional contacts, with inimitable wit and verve. The letters document Plath's extraordinary literary development: the genesis of many poems, short and long fiction, and journalism. Her endeavour to publish in a variety of genres had mixed receptions, but she was never dissuaded. Through acceptance of her work, and rejection, Plath strove to stay true to her creative vision. Well-read and curious, she offers a fascinating commentary on contemporary culture. Leading Plath scholars Peter K. Steinberg and Karen V. Kukil, editor of The Journals of Sylvia Plath 1950-1962, provide comprehensive footnotes and an extensive index informed by their meticulous research. Alongside a selection of photographs and Plath's own line-drawings, the editors masterfully contextualise what the pages disclose. This selection of early correspondence marks the key moments of Plath's adolescence, including childhood hobbies and high school boyfriends; her successful but turbulent undergraduate years at Smith College; the move to England and Cambridge University; and her meeting and marrying Ted Hughes, including a trove of unseen letters post-honeymoon, revealing their extraordinary creative partnership.

    Letters of Sylvia Plath Volume I: 1940-1956
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    The Letters of Sylvia Plath Volume 1

    1940-1956

    • 1424 pages
    • 50 hours of reading
    4.5(92)Add rating

    This comprehensive collection features the complete letters of Sylvia Plath, offering readers unprecedented access to her thoughts and experiences. Many letters are published for the first time, revealing her personal and creative journey. The volume highlights Plath's relationships, struggles, and artistic development, making it an essential read for fans and scholars alike. This definitive edition promises to deepen the understanding of her life and work, marking a significant contribution to literary scholarship.

    The Letters of Sylvia Plath Volume 1
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    Sylvia Plath (1932-1963) was one of the writers that defined the course of twentieth-century poetry. Alongside a selection of photographs and Plath's own drawings, they masterfully contextualise what the pages disclose. This later correspondence witnesses Plath and Hughes becoming major, influential contemporary writers, as it happened.

    Letters of Sylvia Plath Volume II