Subject
Love poetry, English Books
Best books
Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Sonnets from the Portuguese
"Sonnets from the Portuguese" by Elizabeth Barrett Browning is a collection of 44 love sonnets written around 1845–1846 and published in 1850. Despite the title, these deeply personal poems are Browning's own work, not translations. The collection includes some of the most famous lines in English poetry, particularly Sonnet 43's opening: "How do I love thee? Let me count the ways." Initially hesitant to share such intimate verses, Browning published them under a misleading title to preserve privacy, creating an enduring masterpiece of romantic poetry.
William Habington
Castara The Third Edition of 1640; Edited and Collated with the Earlier Ones of 1634, 1635
"Castara" by William Habington is a collection of poems and prose inspired by themes of love, courtship, and virtue, written in the early 17th century. The work navigates the experiences of romantic longing and moral consideration reflecting the societal values of its time, particularly highlighting the ideal of chastity and the complexities of love. The central figure, Castara, serves not only as a muse for the author but also embodies the virtues of purity and grace that the poems seek to celebrate. The opening of "Castara" establishes a rich context, introducing the author’s reflections on love and poetry while emphasizing his commitment to a chaste muse. Habington presents a series of character sketches and poems dedicated to Castara, underscoring her beauty, innocence, and moral superiority. In these initial sections, he navigates through metaphors and heartfelt vows, expressing both the joy and heartache that accompany deep affection. The author portrays his admiration and quest for purity while acknowledging the societal pressures and expectations placed upon love, making it clear that his poetic ambition is rooted in both personal devotion and a broader commentary on virtue.
Unknown
The answering voice : $b one hundred love lyrics by women
"The Answering Voice: One Hundred Love Lyrics by Women" by Sara Teasdale is a curated collection of love poems written by women, compiled in the early 20th century. This anthology reflects a significant era in literature, focusing on the emergence of women's voices in poetry around the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The likely topic of the book centers on expressions of love and the emotional depth that women poets bring to the theme, showcasing their unique perspectives and experiences. The collection brings together a variety of love lyrics that convey a spectrum of emotions associated with love—from longing and devotion to heartbreak and companionship. Featuring works from prominent female poets like Emily Dickinson, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, and Christiana Rossetti, the anthology offers a rich tapestry of insights into romantic and platonic love. Each poem serves as a poignant reflection of the poets' inner lives and societal contexts, emphasizing the transformative power of love and the resilience of the female spirit through beautifully crafted language. Overall, it stands as both a literary treasure and an important recognition of women's contributions to poetry.
Thomas Richardson
Richardson's New London fashionable gentleman's valentine writer, or, the lover's own book for this year : $b Containing a very choice selection of original and popular valentines, with appropriate answers
"Richardson's New London fashionable gentleman's valentine writer, or, the Lover's own book for this year" by Thomas Richardson is a collection of valentine verses published during the early 19th century. This charming book is designed as a practical guide for individuals seeking to express their romantic sentiments through written communication, specifically for Valentine's Day. It encapsulates the essence of love and courtship prevalent in that period, reflecting societal norms, sentiments, and conventions surrounding romantic relationships. The content of the book features a selection of original and popular valentines, accompanied by suitable responses that range from earnest expressions of affection to playful banter. Each valentine captures various voices—from a humble tradesman to a gentleman—exploring themes of love, aspiration, and societal status. The verses encapsulate both romantic declarations and their corresponding responses, illustrating the dynamics of courtship. Some answers graciously accept the love professed, while others tactfully decline, providing a snapshot of love's complexities and the human heart's whims. This collection serves not only as a delightful reading experience but also as a creative wellspring for those wishing to articulate their feelings through poetry during Valentine's celebrations.
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Speculum Amantis Love Poems, from Rare Songbooks and Miscellanies of the Seventeenth Century
"Speculum Amantis" by A. H. Bullen is a collection of love poems compiled from rare songbooks and miscellanies of the seventeenth century. This anthology, likely written in the late 19th century, focuses on the romantic themes and poetic styles prevalent during that era, showcasing a variety of poets and their works. The collection aims to capture the essence of love and desire, weaving together historical and literary traditions. The opening of "Speculum Amantis" sets the stage for a lively exploration of love poetry, beginning with an introduction that welcomes readers both serious and playful, while cautioning the more prudish to step away. Bullen notes the changing social norms around love poetry between the seventeenth century and his own time, explaining that the collection contains verses that might not have been suitable for polite company in his era but were perfectly accepted then. The reader is treated to a selection of verses that cover everything from playful teasing to profound musings about desire and longing, each illustrating the rich tapestry of romantic expression that characterized the period.
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