The Poems of Patrick Branwell Bronte

Large 8vo. xxxvii, 339 pp, acknowledgments, general introduction, biographical note, textual introduction abbreviations, Branwell Bronte's poems in approximate chronological order, 1. Poems of Branwell Bronte previously published in the Shakespeare Head Edition; 2. Poems in Branwell Bronte's 1837 notebook; 3. Other poems of Branwell Bronte, not previously published in the Shakespeare Head Edition; notes, appendix: preliminary list of other poems by Branwell Bronte, not published in this edition, index of poems. Burgundy cloth with gilt lettering to spine. "In addition to recording the variants and as far as possible establishing correct reading, the volume has been expanded to include the revised Angrian poems transcribed by Branwell in 1837 and a number of other poems, some of which have never been published before. The editor investigates the dating of the poems and adds short critical and biographical notes. In the introduction he sheds light on the malpratices of Wise who unscrupulously obtained, inaccurately copied and then wilfully scattered the Bronte manuscripts. Branwell emerges as not merely the black sheep of the family who distracted his sisters from their literary endeavours but a poet whose best achievements were surpassed only by Emily's. It is hoped this edition helps to restore his literary reputation. The improved chronology and the inclusion of new material certainly contribute to an understanding of his influence on his sisters' literary development." from the jacket flap.