Hello! The letters for 3/19 consist of Dickinson’s correspondence to T.W. Higginson and Helen Jackson. I have a few questions in regards to Dickinson’s relationship to these two, as well as a question on a specific letter itself. Feel free to answer any!
Dickinson’s letters to T.W. Higginson and Helen Jackson are both very intriguing, especially when you look at their relationships. The letters between Higginson and Dickinson felt very special, especially as we see them over time. We know that Higginson acted as a mentor to Dickinson, and it is clear in their correspondences, but there also feels to be a deep friendship embedded. Dickinson writes to him in times of sorrow, illness, happiness, and more. I was wondering what people made of their relationship. While it is a mentorship, would you also ascribe something additional: parental, friendship, writers, all of the above? Do you find importance in looking at this relationship outside of just mentorship?
Additionally, Dickinson and Helen Jackson show a great friendship through their letters. In letters 573A-C, we see Jackson encouraging, and succeeding, in asking Dickinson to publish some of her writing. Helen even writes that she will take care of everything, and write from her own hand, just so Dickinson is read. Why do you think Helen was the one successful in getting Dickinson to agree, as we know she was reluctant to publish her works. Does Jackson also being a writer aid in her persuasiveness, or more her friendship? What is the importance of another woman encouraging Dickinson to publish her work anonymously?
Lastly, the letter that stuck out to me the most is letter 459A which is written to Higginson. The letter reads: “Nature is a Haunted House – but Art – a House that tries to be haunted.” This letter feels very poetic, and it was thought to be seemingly sent on its own. I don’t want to give too much of my thoughts away, as to answer the question. So, I am curious about your reading of this letter (letter-poem?). What is Dickinson trying to express through calling nature a “Haunted House,” and art as “trying to be haunted?” Does the letter work to invoke a specific sort of emotion, specifically when thinking of the word haunted? Also, is there something to be said about the capitalization of certain words? I just want everyone to have a go at this letter in any way they see fit!
I look forward to hearing thoughts!
