The Wreckage of Eden

About the book

When U.S. Army chaplain Robert Winter first encounters Emily Dickinson, he is captivated by the brilliance of the peculiar girl engrossed in her botany studies. She will eventually become his confidante, fixation, and inspiration as he shares with her his interactions with the aspiring politician Abraham Lincoln, his meeting with the young journalist Samuel Clemens, and his moral dilemma regarding the radical abolitionist John Brown. Serving in the Mexican War and the Mormon Rebellion with a sense of duty to God and country, Robert tries to alleviate his loneliness as he witnesses and participates in acts of violence that chip away at his faith. Despite his efforts, Emily remains enigmatic and distant during his rare visits to Amherst, refusing him comfort and leading to a profound realization at the core of his despair.

This fifth installment of The American Novels series delves deeply into Emily Dickinson's life, era, and artistic talent, portraying a nation torn apart by ongoing conflicts that resonate in the present day.