Alice Cary

Date of Birth: April 26, 1820

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: February 12, 1871

Biography

Alice Cary was an influential American poet born on April 26, 1820, in Mount Healthy, Ohio. She, along with her sister Phoebe Cary, became prominent figures in the literary circles of the 19th century. The daughters of Robert and Elizabeth Cary, Alice and Phoebe were largely self-educated, developing their literary talents early in life. Alice Cary’s poetry often reflected themes of rural life, social justice, and the human condition. She was deeply connected to the transcendentalist movement, and her works were published in a variety of well-known periodicals, including “The Atlantic Monthly” and “Harper’s Magazine.” In addition to her poetry, Alice wrote several novels and prose works, such as “Clovernook” (1852) and “Pictures of Country Life” (1859). Her writing was known for its emotional depth and vivid imagery, capturing the essence of 19th-century American life. Alice Cary moved to New York City in 1852, where she became a central figure in the city’s literary community. She hosted a popular Sunday evening salon that attracted many prominent writers and intellectuals of the time. Despite her literary success, Alice struggled with health issues throughout her life and passed away on February 12, 1871.

5 Interesting Facts about Alice Cary

1. Alice Cary and her sister Phoebe were the first women to be included in the Ohio State Library’s collection.

2. Alice’s work was highly praised by notable figures such as Edgar Allan Poe and John Greenleaf Whittier.

3. She was a staunch advocate for women’s rights and abolitionism, often weaving these themes into her poetry.

4. Alice Cary’s home in New York City was a cultural hub, frequented by prominent writers like Horace Greeley and P.T. Barnum.

5. Despite her literary success, Alice Cary faced significant financial difficulties and relied on the support of her friends and admirers.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Alice Cary

1. “True worth is in being, not seeming.”

2. “Be noble! and the nobleness that lies in other men, sleeping but never dead, will rise in majesty to meet thine own.”

3. “There is nothing so costly as ignorance.”

4. “The bravest are the tenderest—the loving are the daring.”

5. “If you have knowledge, let others light their candles at it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Alice Cary’s highest net worth is not precisely documented, but like many 19th-century poets, she did not achieve significant financial wealth from her literary works. Her financial struggles were well-known, and she often relied on the support of her literary community.