On this, the 237th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth I offer her eldest brother James’ poem, as it was penned by him after her death in 1817.
In her, rare union, were combined a fair form, and a fairer mind;
Hers fancy quick, and clear good sense,
And wit which never gave offence;
A heart as warm as ever beat, A temper even; calm & sweet.
Though quick & keen her mental eye Poor nature’s foibles to espy,
And seemed forever on the watch,
Some trails of ridicule to catch
Yet not a word she ever penned
Which hurt the feelings of a friend.
If you’d like to spend a little more time with Jane today, pour yourself a nice cup of tea and go to AUSTENTICITY.COM, the everything Austen site.
Beautiful choice of a poem from her eldest brother for Jane Austen’s birthday. And I do like your assessment of Austen’s “gentle but powerful feminism.”
I love that idea of her ‘gentle but powerful feminism.’ What a wonderful phrase! Great to find your blog :)
I like your blog very much. Thank you for a chance to win in your giveaway.
Somehow I had missed her brothers poem. It seems I am a bad Austen fan. My punishment will be to read all of her books again. Oh the terrible punishments I give myself. :-)
I loved your books, I have read both The Man Who Loves Jane Austen and Yours Affectionately, Jane Austen. Hope there is another being work on. :-)
I would love a chance to win, thank you.
What a beautiful poem…have never seen it before…am enjoying Ms Austens birthday hop…thanks for the chance to win…
What a lovely poem. Thank you for sharing and thank you for the lovely giveaway. :) Will keep my fingers crossed.
Happy birthday to Jane and happy holidays to you.
Lisa
slapshinyhappy at yahoo dot com
This poem is lovely!