New England’s Literary Legends: Explore the Stories Behind the Words

Discovering New England’s Literary Roots

New England has long been a cradle of American literature, home to some of the most celebrated writers in history. From transcendentalist poets to modern-day horror masters, explore the landscapes, homes, and legacies of these literary icons.

Featured Authors and Their Stories

1. Emily Dickinson – Amherst, Massachusetts

• The Poet of Solitude: Emily Dickinson wrote nearly 1,800 poems, many of which explored themes of nature and introspection.

• Visit: Tour the Emily Dickinson Museum, which includes her restored home and gardens. Learn about her reclusive life and how her surroundings inspired her work.

2. Henry David Thoreau – Concord, Massachusetts

• The Voice of Simplicity: Thoreau’s Walden reflects his two-year stay at Walden Pond, where he embraced simple living in harmony with nature.

• Visit: Walk the trails at Walden Pond State Reservation and stop by the replica of Thoreau’s cabin. Pair your visit with a stop at nearby Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where Thoreau is buried.

3. Louisa May Alcott – Concord, Massachusetts

• The Author of Little Women: Alcott’s semi-autobiographical novel was set in the heart of New England.

• Visit: Tour Orchard House, where Alcott wrote Little Women. It’s a must-see for fans of the March sisters and literary history.

4. Stephen King – Bangor, Maine

• The Master of Horror: Stephen King’s novels often draw on the eerie landscapes of his home state of Maine.

• Visit: Take a guided tour of Bangor to see landmarks that inspired his works, such as the iconic “IT” sewer drain and his own gothic mansion.

5. Robert Frost – Franconia, New Hampshire

• The Poet of New England: Frost’s poetry captures the rural beauty of New England life.

• Visit: Explore the Frost Place, his former homestead in Franconia. The site includes a museum and a stunning poetry trail through the woods.

Literary Events in New England

• Emily Dickinson Poetry Marathon (Amherst, MA): A reading of all 1,789 of her poems in one day.

• Boston Book Festival (Boston, MA): Celebrate literature with author talks, workshops, and local vendors.

• Stephen King Fan Festival (Bangor, ME): Dive into the world of King with tours, panels, and film screenings.

Literary-Inspired Stops for Book Lovers

• The Montague Bookmill (Montague, MA): A charming bookstore set in a historic mill with scenic river views.

• Longfellow Books (Portland, ME): A cozy indie bookstore named after another New England poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

• The Concord Bookshop (Concord, MA): A haven for lovers of New England’s literary legacy.

Until tomorrow,

Somethin New In New England