Anne Bronte

My sophomore year of college I took a British Lit course. We were to do an intense study on an author that the prof assigned to us. I was given Anne Bronte. I knew nothing of her except for the fact that her sisters are famous for their works. So I started reading all of her work. I became obsessed. Although Emily's poetry is gothic and romantic, I could not stop reading Anne's poetry of her love for the Lord.

A Prayer

My God (oh, let me call Thee mine,
Weak, wretched sinner though I be),
My trembling soul would fain be Thine;
My feeble faith still clings to Thee.

Not only for the Past I grieve,
The Future fills me with dismay;
Unless Thou hasten to relieve,
Thy suppliant is a castaway.

I cannot say my faith is strong,
I dare not hope my love is great;
But strength and love to Thee belong;
Oh, do not leave me desolate!

I know I owe my all to Thee;
Oh, TAKE the heart I cannot give!
Do Thou my strength--my Saviour be,
And MAKE me to Thy glory live. 

Not only is her poetry beautiful, I have thoroughly enjoyed The Tenant of Wildfell Hall. Before reading the actual novel, Anne wrote a preface about why she wrote what she wrote. She will forever be one of my most favorite people in history. So progressive and passionate of The Truth!

"My object in writing the following pages was not simply to amuse the Reader; neither was it to gratify my own taste; not yet to ingratiate myself with the Press and the Public; I wished to tell the truth, for truth always conveys its own moral to those who are able to receive it. But as the priceless treasure too frequently hides at the bottom of a well, it needs some courage to dive for it, especially as he that does so will be likely to insure more scorn and obloquy for the mud and water into which he has ventured to plunge, than thanks for the jewel he procures; as, in like manner, she who undertakes the cleansing of a careless bachelor's apartment will be liable to more abuse for the dust she raises than commendation for the clearance she effects. Let it not be imagined. however, that I consider myself competent to reform the errors and abuses of society, but only that I would fain contribute my humble quota towards so good an aim; and if I can gain the public ear at all, I would rather whisper a few wholesome truths therein than much soft nonsense."