Literary Figures

Some of the most significant literary figures of the United States have either been born in New England or called it home for part of their lives. Of course, in some places in the region such as Maine, an inhabitant who has lived there some 20 years or more is referred to as a "newcomer." Still, even a region that is slow to accept outsiders, would be hard pressed not to welcome some of the literary luminaries who have called New England their home.

The majority of these writers lived in the 19th century, back when New England played a more prominent role in American life, but the list also includes current authors. The rich literary tradition of which the region boasts is a prime reason New England holds the place in American life that it does today.

Male Writers

No list of prominent New England literary luminaries can avoid leaving off some person of note. One person that would be on any list is Ralph Waldo Emerson, born in Boston and graduated from Harvard, in Cambridge. He is known as a father of Transcendentalism, which stresses a belief in individualism and that God can be found in nature. He also is known for being a friend and mentor of Henry David Thoreau, best known for his book, "Walden," which chronicled the two years he lived in a cabin he built on property owned by Emerson.

Two other literary figures who must be mentioned are Nathaniel Hawthorne and Herman Melville. Hawthorne is famous for the novel "The Scarlet Letter" that concerns the moral issues of sin, punishment, and forgiveness. Melville, born in New York and whose grandfather was involved in the Boston Tea Party, wrote "Moby-Dick," considered the greatest American novel of all time. Modern day New England writers include John Irving, who wrote "The World According to Garp," among others, and Stephen King. A native of Maine, King's horror novels have made him one of the most popular writers in the world.

Women Writers

Famed New England women writers include Emily Dickenson, a poetess, and Louisa May Alcott. Dickenson, known for the sensitive nature of her poetry, was born and lived most of her life in Amherst, Massachusetts.

Popular myth is that she was a recluse, but part of that rumor was propagated by her publishers who wanted her to seem more in line with the view of women in her day. Alcott, a native of Pennsylvania, also was a friend of Emerson and spent time walking in the woods alongside Thoreau.

Besides all of the above there is perhaps the most well known New England writer, Mark Twain, who lived in Connecticut.

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