Poems

"Poems" by William Dean Howells is a compilation of verses from the late 1800s where love, heartbreak, and the natural world come alive, mirroring the complicated feelings of being human. The collection uses strong images and expressive language, Howells looks at both the gentleness and the sadness of life, taking readers into his deep poetic thoughts. The book starts with "The Pilot's Story," about a pilot on the Mississippi River telling a sad story. He tells of a striking woman sold into slavery by her master, causing great sorrow that touches everyone on the boat. The pilot’s story clearly shows the river's beauty and creates strong feelings for the woman's sad situation. These first poems establish a strong emotional mood, proving Howells' skill with words and images that pull readers into both the flowing river and the strong emotions of those in the story.