The Sisters' Tragedy, with Other Poems, Lyrical and Dramatic

"The Sisters' Tragedy, with Other Poems, Lyrical and Dramatic" by Thomas Bailey Aldrich is a collection of poetic works primarily written in the late 19th century. This book exhibits a blend of lyrical and dramatic poetry, showcasing Aldrich's exploration of themes such as love, loss, and the complexities of human emotion. The titular piece, "The Sisters' Tragedy," encapsulates the intricacies of sisterly love and heartache intertwined with their devotion to a shared object of affection. The central narrative of "The Sisters' Tragedy" unfolds in 1670 and revolves around two sisters, Aglae and Muriel, who mourn the death of a man they both loved. As they grieve together, their concealed emotions emerge, revealing unspoken feelings and familial bonds tortured by jealousy and unrequited love. Aglae, who once masked her love for the man, confesses to Muriel that he loved her instead, leading to a poignant realization that their love for him ultimately binds them in sorrow. The collection also features other poems that reflect on historical themes, personal introspection, and societal commentary, further illustrating Aldrich's eloquence and capability as a poet. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Thomas Bailey Aldrich was an American writer, poet, critic, and editor. He is notable for his long editorship of The Atlantic Monthly, during which he published writers including Charles W. Chesnutt. He was also known for his semi-autobiographical book The Story of a Bad Boy, which established the "bad boy's book" subgenre in nineteenth-century American literature, and for his poetry.