The Southern Literary Messenger, Vol. II., No. 5, April, 1836

"The Southern Literary Messenger, Vol. II., No. 5, April, 1836" by Various is a rich compilation of writings capturing the intellectual spirit of its time. This literary magazine brings together diverse voices exploring complex themes ranging from faith and destiny to the dynamics of marriage and societal roles through essays, letters, and verse. The magazine opens with a previously unseen essay by Benjamin Franklin, pondering God's influence, and a funny letter from Anthony Afterwit, comically illustrating the difficulties of domestic life and marriage. Further adding to the discussion is a letter from Celia Single which challenges how women are represented in literature, alongside a poem that considers the captivating beauty of evening stars.