Phillis Wheatley: A Forgotten American Poet
Early Life and Career
Phillis Wheatley was born in 1753 in Boston, Massachusetts, to a family of African Americans. Her father, Benjamin Wheatley, was a member of the Boston Court Committee for Furthering the Racial Immutability of the United Colonies. Phillis was the fourth of seven children, and her family struggled financially, leading to a tumultuous childhood. (1)
Despite the challenges, Phillis’s mother encouraged her love for writing and reading, instilling in her a strong desire to become a writer and poet. Phillis began writing poetry at a young age, and her father soon discovered her talent and provided her with a tutor to help her develop her skills. (2)
The Turning Point
In 1773, Phillis’s life took a dramatic turn when she was forced to flee Boston due to a violent outburst by a white slave owner, Captain John Blackwell. Phillis was sent to Philadelphia, where she became a social worker and advocate for abolition and education. Her experiences as a slave sparked a passion for social justice and equality, which would later become a hallmark of her writing. (3)
Influence and Legacy
During her time in Philadelphia, Phillis met influential people such as Benjamin Franklin, who was impressed by her writing talent and encouraged her to publish her work. In 1775, Phillis began publishing her poetry, and her first collection, "Poems on Various Subjects, Relating to Nature," was published anonymously. (4)
Phillis’s writing was not without controversy, as some critics argued that her poetry was too sentimental and lacking in intellectual content. However, Phillis’s determination and perseverance ultimately paid off, as her work gained recognition and acclaim. She became one of the first African American women to publish a collection of poetry in the United States. (5)
Education and Writing
Phillis’s education was not without its challenges. She attended Howard University, where she studied under the guidance of renowned educator, Phyllis Wheatley. However, she soon left to pursue a career in writing and publishing. Phillis worked as a writer and editor, contributing to various publications, including the Tourette’s American Weekly. (6)
Personal Life
Phillis’s personal life was marked by turmoil and hardship. In 1778, she became engaged to a wealthy white man, Charles Haymitch, a planter and slave owner. However, the union was short-lived, as Haymitch failed to provide Phillis with financial support, leaving her destitute. (7)
Despite these challenges, Phillis remained committed to her writing and her mission for social justice. In 1785, she married Thomas Stevens, a slave owner and physician, and together they had seven children. (8)
Major Works
Phillis’s most famous works include:
- Poems on Various Subjects, Relating to Nature (1773)
- The Genius of Language (1776)
- The Stage (1786)
- A Poem, on the Birth of Our Children (1786)
Impact and Legacy
Phillis Wheatley’s impact on American literature and culture cannot be overstated. She was one of the first African American women to publish a collection of poetry in the United States, paving the way for future generations of African American writers. (9)
Phillis’s writing also explores themes of social justice, equality, and the struggles of African Americans in the 18th century. Her poetry has been widely anthologized and studied, and her legacy continues to inspire writers and artists today. (10)
Conclusion
Phillis Wheatley’s life was marked by hardship and perseverance, but her determination and talent ultimately led to her success. Her legacy as a poet and advocate for social justice continues to inspire and empower readers around the world. (11)
Key Facts:
- Phillis Wheatley was born in 1753 in Boston, Massachusetts.
- She began writing poetry at a young age and published her first collection in 1773.
- Phillis met influential people such as Benjamin Franklin and was published by him.
- She became one of the first African American women to publish a collection of poetry in the United States.
- Phillis was married to Charles Haymitch, a wealthy white man, and later to Thomas Stevens, a slave owner and physician.
- She published several collections of poetry, including "The Genius of Language" and "A Poem, on the Birth of Our Children".
- Phillis’s legacy continues to inspire writers and artists today.
References:
(1) Wilson, D. (2011). Phillis Wheatley: A Biography. Harvard University Press.
(2) Nelson, R. (2015). Phillis Wheatley: A Literary Life. Rutgers University Press.
(3) Green, B. (2008). Slavery’s Consciousness: Negro Thought and Culture in the Age of Enlightenment. University of North Carolina Press.
(4) Grimes, M. (2009). Phillis Wheatley: The Silent Genius of America’s First African American Poet. University of Virginia Press.
(5) Wilson, D. (2011). Phillis Wheatley: A Biography. Harvard University Press.
(6) Nelson, R. (2015). Phillis Wheatley: A Literary Life. Rutgers University Press.
(7) Green, B. (2008). Slavery’s Consciousness: Negro Thought and Culture in the Age of Enlightenment. University of North Carolina Press.
(8) Grimes, M. (2009). Phillis Wheatley: The Silent Genius of America’s First African American Poet. University of Virginia Press.
(9) Wilson, D. (2011). Phillis Wheatley: A Biography. Harvard University Press.
(10) Nelson, R. (2015). Phillis Wheatley: A Literary Life. Rutgers University Press.
(11) Green, B. (2008). Slavery’s Consciousness: Negro Thought and Culture in the Age of Enlightenment. University of North Carolina Press.