Sarah Orne Jewett

Franklin Library Sarah Orne Jewett books

The Country of Pointed Firs and Stories - 100 Greatest Masterpieces of American Literature - 1979

The Country of the Pointed Firs and Four Stories - Collected Stories of the World's Greatest Writers - 1984

 

 

Writer Sarah Orne Jewett

Sarah Orne Jewett, born on September 3, 1849, in South Berwick, Maine, was an American novelist, short story writer, and one of the prominent literary figures of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She is celebrated for her insightful portrayals of rural life in New England and her contributions to regional literature. Raised in a family with deep roots in New England, Jewett developed a strong connection to the region and its people. She was greatly influenced by her father, a distinguished physician, and her mother, who fostered Jewett's love for literature and storytelling.

Jewett's writing career began with the publication of her stories in popular magazines of the time. In 1877, she published her first novel, Deephaven, which laid the foundation for her exploration of the rural landscapes and characters that would become central to her work. Her subsequent works, including A Country Doctor (1884) and A White Heron and Other Stories (1886), established her reputation as a skillful writer who captured the essence of small-town life. One of Jewett's most acclaimed works is the novel The Country of the Pointed Firs (1896), a collection of interconnected stories set in a coastal Maine village. The book is praised for its detailed and empathetic portrayal of characters and the natural environment, marking Jewett as a leading figure in the American literary movement known as local color or regionalism.

Throughout her career, Sarah Orne Jewett maintained a close friendship with fellow writer Annie Fields, a relationship that greatly influenced her life and work. Jewett's writing often reflected her deep appreciation for nature, the changing seasons, and the simplicity of rural existence. Her stories and novels, characterized by their keen observations and nuanced characterizations, earned her recognition and respect in literary circles. In addition to her fiction, Jewett wrote essays, poems, and letters that showcased her keen insights into the human condition and her love for the landscapes of New England. Her influence extended beyond her literary contributions, as she played a vital role in encouraging and mentoring other writers.

Sarah Orne Jewett's health declined in the early 20th century, leading to a curtailment of her writing activities. She died on June 24, 1909, in South Berwick, leaving behind a legacy of regional literature that continues to be appreciated for its rich portrayal of New England life and its enduring contributions to American literature.