ESSENTIAL DICKINSON

Throughout her illustrious acting career Julie Harris has found inspiration in historical characters--none more than Emily Dickinson. This collection of 47 Dickinson letters and poems was recorded in 1960 by a 35-year-old Harris, who was about the same age as the reclusive poet when she was at her creative peak. One can hear the affinity Harris had for the material in her calm, alluring, and focused performance. In the familiar lyrical rhythms of works like "Because I Could Not Stop for Death" and "I Never Lost as Much but Twice" Harris gives us an Emily Dickinson who embodies what "The Belle of Amherst" will always be--an essential and altogether original American voice. B.P. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 06/ JAN 07]