The Two-Way Mirror: The Life of Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Poet Sampson (In Search of Mary Shelley) takes an unconventional and intriguing look at the life of poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning (1806–1861). The volume is structured in nine “books” to mimic Elizabeth’s masterwork Aurora Leigh, and takes as its central conceit a focus on mirrors and framing. “Elizabeth dramatizes the two-way creation of every writing self, from without and from within,” Sampson writes, and aims to shatter the clichés that “frame” Barrett Browning’s life. Far from being the feeble, dominated invalid she’s often portrayed as, Barrett Browning was a well-regarded poet and financially independent. Sampson makes the case for Barrett Browning being “radical and exciting,” as she set the stage for such poets as Emily Dickinson and Sylvia Plath, and as “someone who becomes herself through becoming a poet.” Barrett Browning’s family history—they made their fortune in the sugar trade, profiting from slavery—is examined, as well, and puts her involvement in the abolitionist movement in context. This account shines when breaking the mythologies that surround Barrett Browning’s reputation, but the frequent reflections on framing and mirrors distracts rather than enhances. Still, fans of Barrett Browning will appreciate this refreshing portrait of the poet as an empowered woman. (Aug.)