Boston's Literary Legacy ✍️ A Haven for Great Writers

Boston is a stomping ground for great writers. From the scary stories of Edgar Allan Poe to the transcendental philosophy of Ralph Waldo Emerson, the city has inspired works of many, many renowned authors.

Let's explore a few of these great fellow Bostonians:

Edgar Allan Poe “Returning to Boston Statue” on the Common

1. Edgar Allan Poe:

Edgar Allan Poe is known for scary, macabre stories and he spent a big portion of his life in Boston. Born in 1809, Poe went to Boston Latin School and later published his first collection of poetry, "Tamerlane and Other Poems," while living in the city.

2. Henry David Thoreau:

Henry David Thoreau is a leading figure in transcendentalismwas born and raised in Concord. His most famous work, "Walden," reflects his two-year experience living in a cabin near Walden Pond, where he sought a simpler existence in nature. Thoreau's writings includes essays like "Civil Disobedience”.

3. Ralph Waldo Emerson:

Ralph Waldo Emerson, a close friend and mentor to Thoreau, was also deeply connected to the literary scene in Boston. As a key figure in the transcendentalist movement, Emerson's essays and lectures, such as "Self-Reliance" and "Nature," promoted individualism and the exploration of the human spirit.

4. Louisa May Alcott:

Louisa May Alcott was born in Pennsylvania and moved to Boston with her family when she was young. Her famous book “Little Women” was inspired by her own experiences growing up in New England. The March sisters captured the feelings of young women living in the 19th century.

Boston's Literary Community:

Beyond these iconic writers, Boston's literary community thrives. Our bookstores, libraries, and universities are fertile ground for emerging writers. The Boston Public Library in Copley was founded in 1848 and stands as a testament to the city's dedication to promoting literacy.

Other notable writers from our town include Nathaniel Hawthorne, Sylvia Plath, Robert Frost, Dennis Lehane, Jhumpa Lahiri, and many more. Much of their work was influenced by Boston’s history, landscape, and the intellectual climate of the time.

Have you read any of the authors above (I love Emerson’s “Self Reliance” myself). Let us know in the comments.