In this series, a contemporary poet selects and introduces a poet from the past. Through their selection of poems and the personal and critical reactions expressed in their forewords, the editors offer insights into their own work while providing an accessible and passionate introduction to some of the greatest poets in our literature.

Emily Dickinson (1830-86) was born in Amherst, Massachusetts, where she lived most of her life as a recluse, rarely leaving the house or receiving visitors. She published only a handful of poems during her lifetime, with her first collection being released posthumously in 1890.