Phoebe Cary

Phoebe_cary_portrait_in_cary_cottage_(2)

Phoebe Cary

Phoebe Cary (September 4, 1824 – July 31, 1871) was an American poet and author. She was born in Mount Healthy, Ohio, and was known for her lyrical poetry and essays. Along with her sister, Alice Cary, Phoebe was part of the literary scene in the mid-19th century.

Early Life

Phoebe Cary was born on September 4, 1824, in Mount Healthy, Ohio. She was the younger sister of poet Alice Cary. The Cary sisters grew up in a farm in Ohio and were largely self-educated.

Career

Phoebe Cary began her writing career by contributing poems and essays to various publications. She gained recognition for her poetry, which often focused on themes of nature, love, and spirituality. Cary's works were well-received by readers and critics alike.

In addition to her poetry, Cary also wrote essays on social issues of the time, including women's rights and abolitionism. She was an active supporter of the anti-slavery movement and used her writing to advocate for social change.

Cary's literary circle included prominent writers and thinkers of the time, such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. She was respected for her talent and contributions to American literature.

Legacy

Phoebe Cary's poetry continues to be studied and appreciated for its lyrical quality and emotional depth. Her works are included in anthologies of American poetry and are considered important contributions to the literary landscape of the 19th century.

Cary's influence on American literature, particularly in the realm of poetry, is significant. Her writings reflect the cultural and social milieu of her time and offer insights into the values and concerns of mid-19th century America.