Their vivid
imaginations, unchecked by experience, in a commonplace world were
allowed free play, and as a result we find some of the most original
creations in the whole realm of literature.
The life of the Bronte sisterhood should convince the literary aspirant
that the creative imagination is sufficient unto itself and independent
of the stimulus of contact with the busy hum of men. If it be
necessary, the literary genius by divination can portray life without
seeing it. Bricks are produced without straw.
From "Life of Charlotte Bronte," by Mrs. E. C. Gaskell.
But the children did not want society. To small infantine gayeties
they were unaccustomed. They were all in all to each other. I do not
suppose that there ever was a family more tenderly bound to each other.
Maria read the newspapers, and reported intelligence to her younger
sisters which it is wonderful they could take an interest in. But I
suspect that they had no "children's books," and their eager minds
"browzed undisturbed among the wholesome pasturage of English
literature," as Charles Lamb expresses it. The servants of the
household appear to have been much impressed with the little Brontes'
extraordinary cleverness.
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