Poems, &c. (1790) Wherein It Is Attempted To Describe Certain Views Of Nature And Of Rustic Manners; And Also, To Point Out, In Some Instances, The Different Influence Which The Same Circumstances Produce On Different Characters

"Poems, &c." by Joanna Baillie is a compilation of poems from the late 1700s that takes a careful look at nature, simple country living, and the tricky ways our feelings can be affected by what's happening around us. It seems that Baillie uses strong, descriptive writing to show how different people react to similar settings, pointing out all the small differences in how we experience life. The collection starts with a vivid picture of country life on a winter day, showing the cozy warmth of a family's home compared to the rough weather outside. The poem shares details about the farmer and his family's morning activities, showing their everyday challenges and how they stick to their routines even when it's cold. The tough conditions outside are also a reminder of the struggles of animals and the growing darkness of winter, but the tender moments within the family offer a contrast to the gloominess. This beginning part really sets the tone for the rest of the collection, encouraging readers to get lost in Baillie's observations about existence, nature, and how our personalities and immediate vicinity interact with each other.