Emily Dickinson Begins Corresponding with Thomas Wentworth Higginson
Poet involved
What happened
On April 15, 1862, Emily Dickinson initiated a lifelong correspondence with essayist and literary critic Thomas Wentworth Higginson by sending him four poems and asking for his opinion. Writing from the Homestead in Amherst, she signed her letters 'Your Scholar' and maintained this relationship for over two decades.
Literary impact
Higginson became Dickinson's primary literary mentor and critic, though he famously advised her against publishing. Their extensive correspondence allowed Dickinson to articulate her poetic theories and defend her unconventional style, while Higginson's eventual co-editing of her posthumous work helped introduce her to the world.
Source: Wikipedia
