Letters of Sylvia Plath Volume I: 1940-1956

Sylvia Plath's letters, previously unpublished and presented without revision, offer a candid insight into her personal life and literary development. The letters document her journey as a writer, from her adolescence to her marriage to Ted Hughes, and showcase her playful wit and verve. Plath's letters are accompanied by comprehensive footnotes and an index, providing valuable context by leading scholars Peter K. Steinberg and Karen V. Kukil. This collection highlights key moments in Plath's life and career, including her hobbies, education, and creative partnership with Hughes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 1440 pages
Publication date: 19 September 2019
Publisher: Faber & Faber

Sylvia Plath, a prominent figure in twentieth-century poetry, left an indelible mark on the literary landscape with her vibrant, audacious, and intricate verse. Her captivating poetry continues to enchant and inspire new generations of readers and writers, captivating their hearts and minds with its profound depth and emotional resonance.

In the Letters, we embark on a journey through the art of Plath's correspondence, unveiling a treasure trove of previously unpublished letters that offer a direct glimpse into her thoughts and words. Presented without any revision or editing, these letters allow Plath to speak authentically, revealing intimate details of her personal life with playful candor. From family and friends to professional contacts, she entertains her audience with her inimitable wit and verve, creating a captivating tapestry of letters that showcase her extraordinary literary development.

These letters trace the genesis of numerous poems, short stories, and journalism, showcasing Plath's unwavering commitment to her creative vision. Despite facing mixed receptions and rejections, she remained steadfast in her pursuit of artistic excellence, embracing both acceptance and rejection as stepping stones toward her ultimate goal. Well-versed in literature and culture, Plath offers insightful commentary on contemporary society, adding depth and complexity to her writings.

To accompany this captivating collection, leading Plath scholars Peter K. Steinberg and Karen V. Kukil, the editor of The Journals of Sylvia Plath 1950-1962, have provided comprehensive footnotes and an extensive index. Their meticulous research has enriched the content, offering valuable insights and context to the letters. Additionally, a selection of photographs and Plath's own line-drawings enhance the reader's experience, providing visual glimpses into her life and artistic journey.

This selection of early correspondence serves as a pivotal exploration of Plath's adolescence, encompassing her childhood hobbies, high school relationships, and the transformative years spent at Smith College and Cambridge University. It sheds light on her meeting and marrying Ted Hughes, unveiling their extraordinary creative partnership through a trove of unseen letters post-honeymoon. These letters reveal the depth of their emotional connection, their shared artistic aspirations, and the challenges they faced as a couple.

In conclusion, Sylvia Plath's Letters offer a profound and intimate glimpse into the life and work of a literary legend. Through her candid and captivating correspondence, we witness her artistic development, personal struggles, and profound connection with others. This collection, accompanied by expert scholarship and captivating visual elements, provides a deeper understanding of Plath's legacy and continues to inspire and captivate readers worldwide.

Weight: 1716g
Dimension: 235 x 159 x 62 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571329014
Edition number: Main