Counters myths about Emily Dickinson with the known facts of her life, interweaves commentaries on her poetry with discussions of the era in which she lived and influences on her mental development, and assesses her impact on modern writing.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Legend and life -- A question of faith -- This mortal life -- Versions of love -- The struggle for sanity -- The secret and spectacle of nature -- The prose of a poet -- A lasting influence.