Sweet Hours (eBook)

In 'Sweet Hours', Carmen Sylva (the nom de plume of the first Queen of Romania) crafts a poignant anthology of English poetry that captures the ranging spectrum of human emotion, from mourning to exultation. With works such as 'To the Memory of Queen Victoria' and the contemplative 'When Joy Is Dead', Sylva delicately balances form and feeling. Her poetry is suffused with the lyrical intensity that was characteristic of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, making it resonate with readers seeking solace and depth in literature. Through intricate versification and a mastery of language, these poems establish Sylva as a literary force within the European canon, showcasing her versatility as she writes in multiple languages while maintaining a distinctive voice that is uniquely her own.

Carmen Sylva, born Pauline Elisabeth Ottilie Louise zu Wied, used her literary talent to transcend her royal duties and reach out to the world of letters. Her extensive travels and the cultural richness of her court life contributed profoundly to her literary output. Writing under her pseudonym, Sylva produced a body of work reflective of her intimate experiences with political power and personal tragedy. Her perspective as a monarch who actively engaged with intellectual society allowed her insights into the human condition that few of her peers could claim, enriching her poetic expressions with both authenticity and aristocratic poise.

'Recommended for enthusiasts of royal history and literary scholars alike, 'Sweet Hours' stands not only as a testament to an era but as an enduring vessel for the timeless human experience. Readers who savor works that encapsulate the complexity of life's trials and triumphs will find a kindred spirit in Sylva's verses. This collection is particularly suitable for those with an interest in women's contributions to literature, inviting a deep exploration into the interplay between the author's regal circumstances and her profound literary voice.