Recovering Dorothy: The Hidden Life of Dorothy Wordsworth

Dorothy Wordsworth was the author of the Alfoxden and Grasmere Journals (1798–1803) and the sister of William Wordsworth. She was seriously ill in 1829 and was mostly housebound for the last twenty years of her life, but her personal letters and unpublished journals reveal a compassionate and creative woman who made her sickroom into a garden for herself and her pet robin and who was vital to her brothers success.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 288 pages
\n Publication date: 25 November 2021
\n Publisher: Saraband
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Dorothy Wordsworth, the esteemed author of the Alfoxden and Grasmere Journals ({PHONE}), holds a notable distinction as the sister of the renowned poet William Wordsworth. Her literary prowess in the realm of nature writing has earned her widespread acclaim, and she is often celebrated for her remarkable physical vitality. However, there exists a lesser-known facet to her story. In 1829, Dorothy faced a severe illness that confined her to her home for the majority of the last twenty years of her life.

Through her personal letters and unpublished journals from this period, a captivating portrait emerges of a compassionate and creative woman. She transformed her sickroom into a flourishing garden, nurturing not only her own well-being but also that of her beloved pet robin. Over time, Dorothy embraced her newfound identity as a poet, finding solace and inspiration within the confines of her own room.

What is particularly noteworthy is the profound impact Dorothy had on her brothers' success. Her unwavering support and encouragement played a crucial role in their artistic journeys. The close bond that she shared with her siblings is evident in their letters, revealing a deep connection and mutual admiration. By re-examining her life through the lens of her illness, this biography offers a unique opportunity to shed light on Dorothy Wordsworth's remarkable life story, allowing her to step out from her brother's shadow and reclaim her rightful place in the annals of literary history.

\n Weight: 244g\n
Dimension: 129 x 199 x 41 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781913393175\n \n